King Abdullah visits GIDS, Tilla Shooting Ranges; praises the army’s operational capabilities
King Abdullah II receives a briefing during a visit to Tilla Field Shooting Ranges. Photo: APP
ISLAMABAD:
King Abdullah of Jordan on Sunday praised the operational capabilities of Pakistani soldiers as the country’s civilian and military leadership reiterated its commitment to further strengthen military-to-military cooperation with the Hashemite kingdom.
King Abdullah, who was on a two-day visit to Pakistan, spent a busy day visiting Global Industrial and Defense Solutions (GIDS), Tilla Field Firing Ranges and Aiwan-e-Sadr, where he held talks with President Asif Zardari on bilateral, regional and international issues.
On arrival at GIDS, the King was received by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and senior military officers. King Abdullah was accompanied by Princess Salma bint Abdullah and a high-level delegation of Jordanian civilian and military officials.
During the visit, the king was briefed on GIDS’ structure, options and product portfolio. The briefing showcased Pakistan’s progress in indigenous defense production, technological innovation and potential opportunities for bilateral defense cooperation, a military statement said.
Later, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), King Abdullah II visited the Tilla Field shooting ranges. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijan Defense Minister Vugar Valeh oglu Mustafayev were also present on the occasion. The guests attended a joint fire and maneuver exercise.
“The exercise demonstrated multi-domain operations including conventional firepower and air firepower, coordinated maneuvers and spectrum warfare supported by multi-purpose drones deployed in various configurations and roles,” ISPR stated.
“King Abdullah II appreciated the high standards of training, professionalism and operational capabilities and readiness demonstrated by the participating troops and aircrews,” it added.
Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan’s deep respect and affection for King Abdullah II and the people of Jordan, noting that the visit reflected the enduring friendship, mutual trust and common desire for peace and development.
Field Marshal Asim Munir highlighted the strong defense partnership between Pakistan and Jordan. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthen military-to-military cooperation with Jordan and jointly realize the mutual vision of a stable and peaceful region.
Earlier, King Abdullah awarded Field Marshal Asim Munir the ‘Order of Military Merit First Class’ in recognition of his outstanding service and significant contribution to strengthening military cooperation between Jordan and Pakistan.
Separately, the Jordanian monarch met President Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr. First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Senator Sherry Rehman also attended the meeting.
During the meeting, the President reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to close cooperation with Jordan and to further strengthen the longstanding and brotherly relations between the two countries. Both sides agreed to expand bilateral cooperation to new areas.
They also discussed the situation in the Middle East and announced their joint support for peace and stability in the region. They emphasized the establishment of a free, independent and viable Palestinian state under the two-state solution.
On the issue of Palestine, President Zardari and King Abdullah noted a “convergence of views” and reiterated their common position on post-war Gaza. They “rejected any displacement of Palestinians,” according to a Pakistani television report.
King Abdullah II expressed pride in the “deep-rooted ties” between Jordan and Pakistan and reaffirmed Amman’s commitment to expanding cooperation “across various sectors.” Both leaders also agreed to maintain close coordination on bilateral, regional and global issues.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Climate Minister Musadik Malik, the Foreign Minister and the ambassadors of Pakistan and Jordan were also present at the meeting.
Later, President Zardari handed over ‘Nishan-e-Pakistan’ to King Abdullah II. The King of Jordan awarded President Zardari the ‘Wisam al-Nahda al-Murassa’, which is awarded to heads of state and prominent personalities.
(WITH ACCESS FROM APP)
