June 18, 2008	Wednesday	Jamadi-us-Sani 13, 1429

RAWALPINDI, June 17: Pakistan and Nigeria have expressed their desire to boost bilateral cooperation in various fields for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

The call came at meeting between Federal Minister for Defence Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar and the visiting Nigerian Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral G.T.A. Adekeye, who called on him here on Tuesday.

The two naval commanders exchanged views on the existing level of defence cooperation and underscored the need to enhance collaboration and closer interaction between the navies of the two countries.

The minister informed the visiting dignitary that Pakistan attached utmost significance to its ties with Nigeria and wanted to further promote cooperation in the areas of trade, economy and defence.

The meeting agreed to increase cooperation in the area of training so as to benefit from each other’s experience.

Mr Mukhtar also highlighted the potential of defence industry of Pakistan.

Vice Admiral Adekeye termed his visit to Pakistan very fruitful and expressed the hope that it would further cement bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Pakistan. He thanked the minister for extending warm welcome and hospitality to him and members of his delegation.