SANAA, Feb 1: Lauding Pakistan’s progress in defence production, Yemen on Friday expressed keen interest in promoting defence cooperation between the two countries.

The interest was shown by Yemens defence minister Gen Mohammad Nasir Ahmed during his meeting with caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro.

Interaction at the highest level always helped in improving relations and strengthen bonds between the two countries, the prime minister said.

Reciprocating the warm sentiments of Gen Nasir, he said that contacts between the armed forces of the two countries should continue to develop better understanding and boost cooperation.

Besides training of the Yemeni officers in Pakistani academies, there is more potential and scope for cooperation in other technical fields as well.

Gen Mohammad Nasir said that Yemen needed Pakistans help and support in the improvement of its medical corps and military hospitals.

He said: “We are proud of the progress made by Pakistan in defence production. We are happy and satisfied with the military training to Yemeni officers in Pakistan.”

“The bonds between the two countries are strong and will be stronger with the passage of time,” he said.

Yemeni people love Pakistani people because of their common history, culture and civilization. Both the sides wished peace and prosperity of Muslim Ummah.

Defence Production secretary Lt-Gen (retd) Shahid Siddiq Tirmizey was also present during the meeting.—APP