RIYADH/RAWALPINDI (Agencies) - Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, who arrived in the Saudi Capital Riyadh Tuesday morning on an official visit, met Defence Minister Prince Salman Bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud, Deputy Defence Minister Prince Khalid Bin Sultan bin Abdul Aziz and Commander Royal Land Forces General Khalid bin Bandr Bin Abdul Aziz.
During the meeting, they discussed issues of common interest between the two countries and ways and means to enhance mutual cooperation.
Both sides noted that the ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan were of unique nature, long lasting and time tested and unmatched with strongest bonds, a statement from the Pakistan embassy said.
The COAS expressed his gratitude to the Saudi government and people for exemplary support extended to Pakistan, as the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to maintain and reinforce their ties peace and security in the region.
Detailed discussions were also held on various aspects of combat capabilities and professional skills and it was agreed to work hard to further enhance interaction between two armed forces and their combat capabilities.
It was also agreed to increase the frequency of joint exercises between the two armed forces.
Kayani also called on Deputy Minister of Interior Prince Mohammad Bin Naif Bin Abdul Aziz Tuesday evening. Matters pertaining to status of bilateral cooperation in counter terrorism and violent extremism were discussed. According to political observers, Kayani’s visit is an attempt to urge the Saudi government ask PML-N chief Mian Nawaz Sharif to support reopening of the Nato supply route via Pakistan.
It is a well-known fact that the Sharifs enjoy good relations with the Saudi royal family; therefore, it is said that Riyadh can influence Nawaz to back the move aiming at the restoration of Nato supplies.
The PML-N is openly opposing some recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security (PCNS), which is delaying the decision on resetting the terms of engagement with the United States in the aftermath of Salala attack.