Saudi deputy defence minister meets PM Imran, COAS Bajwa

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan and Saudi Deputy Defence Minister Khalid Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Monday discussed bilateral relations during a meeting held here in the federal capital.

During the meeting, the premier said: "Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have a historic and brotherly relation [and] Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud's visit to the country was historic."

While exchanging views on international matters, he added that the human rights situation in occupied Kashmir was deteriorating. 

PM Imran and the Saudi official also exchanged views on various international matters, including the Indian leadership's extremist statements and offensive actions, which he said were a threat to the regional peace and security.

"The violence in occupied Kashmir needs to be stopped. A peaceful solution to the issue is necessary," he said.

Deputy Defence Minister meets COAS Bajwa

Earlier in the day, Khalid Bin Salman also called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the General Headquarters, the military's media wing said in a statement.

The Saudi official and COAS exchanged views on issues of mutual interest including defence and security cooperation, measures to further enhance bilateral defence collaboration including training exchange program and overall regional security situation including situation in Occupied Kashmir, the ISPR said.

They agreed that both countries shared a great history of cordial relations as well as a deep spirit of brotherhood, which was being transformed into an enduring partnership.

The visiting dignitary acknowledged the Pakistan Army's professionalism and expressed gratitude for the assistance it provided, especially towards the training of Royal Saudi Armed Forces both at Pakistan as well as at the KSA through bilateral training cooperation.

Gen Bajwa thanked the visiting dignitary for acknowledging the Army’s achievements in the war against terrorism, sacrifices, as well as the contribution towards regional peace and stability.

The deputy defence minister was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Chief of General Staff (CGS) General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili and Military Adviser to Minister of Defence, Major General (Engineer) Talal Abdullah Alotaibi.

Earlier, upon their arrival at the GHQ, the visiting dignitary was presented a guard of honour.