RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff Gen Syed Asim Munir met civil and military leadership of Turkiye during his official visit aimed at enhancing historic ties between the two countries.

During the visit, according to a statement issued by military’s media wing, the COAS called on Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkiye, Foreign and Defence Ministers, Commander of Turkish General Staff and Commanders of Turkish land and air forces.

During the meetings, the COAS emphasised on enhancing defence collaboration and training cooperation.

The COAS later visited the Turkish Land Forces’ Headquarters, where on his arrival he was given a warm welcome and was presented with the Guard of Honour. Gen Munir was also conferred with the Legion of Merit by the Minister of Defence and Commander Turkish Land Forces in recognition of his services towards promoting defence relations between the two countries.

Speaking on the occasion, the army chief said that Pakistan and Türkiye have strong brotherly relations which have always stood the test of times.

“Pakistan Army is always willing to extend full support to the Turkish Land Forces in multiple domains. Pakistan has always stood with their Turkish brothers in times of calamity and moments of triumph and shall continue to strengthen the fraternal ties amongst the two nations,” the COAS said.

Published in Dawn, September 14th, 2023