ISLAMABAD   -  Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa interacted with participants of the 8th National Workshop Balochistan at General Headquarters on Thursday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the interaction is part of workshop being held at Quetta from 1 – 27 November; attended by people related to various fields / segments of society. Recalling the innumerable sacrifices of the nation in defeating terrorism, COAS reiterated that the hard earned peace shall be vigorously guarded at all costs. The resolute support of people of Balochistan to Security Forces has resulted in stability of the province and materialisation of progress on projects of socio-economic development, COAS remarked.

Linking prosperity of Pakistan with Balochistan, COAS said nefarious designs of the forces inimical to peace and stability of Pakistan are being foiled through a synergetic and comprehensive strategy.

COAS emphasised that the internal and external challenges faced by Pakistan demand a comprehensive national response. COAS said that by virtue of the effective management of Western Zone, Pakistan was able to remain safe amid crisis situation inside Afghanistan. We will continue ensuring our border and internal security which is so vital for national development, COAS affirmed. Participants thanked COAS for the opportunity.

Meanwhile, Secretary General of Defence and National Armaments Director Italy Lieutenant General Luciano Portolano called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa at GHQ on Thursday.

“During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security situation including the recent developments in Afghanistan and with particular reference to enhanced military cooperation in the field of training and counter terrorism domains were discussed,” says a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate following the meeting. 

COAS said that Pakistan values Italy’s role in global and regional affairs and we look forward to enhance our bilateral relationship. COAS also emphasised on the urgency for swiftly devising an institutional mechanism for channeling humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in order to avert a looming humanitarian catastrophe. He asserted that “Peace in Afghanistan means peace in Pakistan.”

The visiting dignitary acknowledged the professionalism of Pakistan Armed Forces and vowed to enhance cooperation in various fields. He also appreciated Pakistan’s role in Afghan situation, special efforts for border management and role in regional stability.