Pakistan and Turkey discussed joint defense production and collaboration in security, counter-terrorism domains
Pakistan and Turkish officials vowed to strengthen defense ties during the 16th round of the Pakistan–Turkey High-Level Military Dialogue Group (HLMDG) meeting was held at the Ministry of Defence in Islamabad from January 4-7.
Pakistan’s Secretary Defence retired Gen Muhammad Hilal Hussain and Deputy Chief of Turkish General Staff Gen Selcuk Bayraktaroglu led their respective sides at the talks.
They discussed joint defense production, as well as collaboration in security, counter-terrorism domains and approaches to regional developments.
The delegations also reviewed the measures that have been taken since holding of last HLMDG meeting in Turkey in December 2020.
The delegation leaders resolved to work together for enhanced cooperation in defense and security-related fields. The 17th Round of Pakistan-Turkey HLMDG meeting will be held next year in Turkey on mutually agreed dates.
General Bayraktaroglu also held meetings with the Minister for Defence, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Nadeem Raza, Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Amjad Niazi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber, and President of National Defence University, Islamabad.
During the meetings, they discussed defense cooperation covering training, exchange visits and co-production of defense equipment.
Gen Bayraktaroglu and Gen Bajwa discussed matters related to regional security situation, mutual and professional interest with special emphasis on defense and security collaboration between the two brotherly countries, were discussed.
Army Chief said that “Pakistan highly values its brotherly relations with Turkey which are deeply rooted in history and entrenched in our cultural and religious affinities.” The visiting dignitary acknowledged the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces and vowed to enhance cooperation in various fields. He also appreciated Pakistan’s role in the Afghan situation, special efforts for border management and role in regional stability.
Pakistan and Turkish officials vowed to strengthen defense ties during the 16th round of the Pakistan–Turkey High-Level Military Dialogue Group (HLMDG) meeting was held at the Ministry of Defense in Islamabad from January 4-7, 2021. Photo – PID