ISLAMABAD - Chief of General Staff (CGS) Turkish Land Forces Lieutenant General Veli Tarakci called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa at GHQ on Monday. “During the meeting, matters of regional security situation, mutual and professional interest with special emphasis on defence and security collaboration between the two brotherly countries were discussed,” says a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate. Speaking on the occasion, COAS said, "We highly value our brotherly relations with Turkey which are deeply rooted in history and entrenched in our cultural and religious affinities." COAS underscored the importance of peace and reconciliation initiatives in Afghanistan. He stressed upon the need for sincere international efforts to avert a humanitarian crisis. Both sides agreed to further optimise military to military ties particularly in training and counter-terrorism domains. The visiting dignitary also appreciated Pakistan’s role in Afghan situation, special efforts for border management and role in regional stability. Turkish CGS also acknowledged the professionalism of Pakistan Armed Forces and vowed to enhance cooperation in various fields.