RAWALPINDI: Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, who is in Egypt on an official visit, called on Commander in Chief of Egyptian armed forces and minister of defence and military production Gen Mohamed Zaki and Chief of the Staff of Egyptian Armed Forces Lt Gen Mohamed Farid Hegazy.

Matters of mutual interest, military-to-military relations, defence and security cooperation were discussed during the meetings, said a press release issued here by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Monday.

The Egyptian leadership highly appreciated the professionalism of the Pakistan Army and determination of the nation in combating terrorism. Both sides agreed to increase bilateral cooperation in multiple fields, including joint ventures, defence production, training and intelligence. The two sides also agreed to improve cooperation for regional peace and stability.

Al-Azhar’s grand sheikh welcomes Paigham-i-Pakistan fatwa on issues arising from extremism

The COAS also met Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Sheikh of Al-Azhar. The sheikh commended the efforts of the Pakistan Army in eliminating the scourge of terrorism from the country.

He also appreciated the issuance of Paigham-i-Pakistan fatwa on issues arising from extremism by religious scholars of all schools of thoughts of Pakistan.

He added that Islam is a religion of moderation and a complete code of conduct, which must not be linked to terrorism and extremism in the global community.

The army chief emphasised the need to harness Muslim youth towards enlightenment, technological advancement, moderation and harmony.

Earlier, on arrival, a smartly turned out contingent of the Egyptian Army presented a guard of honour to Gen Bajwa at the ministry of defence.

Published in Dawn, December 18th, 2018