Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, held a pivotal meeting with the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, Field Marshal Khalifa Abu-al-Qasim Haftar, at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on Monday. The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral defense cooperation and addressing shared regional security challenges.
Focus on Regional Security and Professional Collaboration
According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, the two leaders exchanged views on matters of mutual interest with a particular focus on the security dynamics in their respective regions and avenues for professional military cooperation. The ISPR noted the meeting underscored the importance of continued engagement and collaboration between the armed forces of both nations.
“CDF Asim Munir welcomed the distinguished guests and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Libya,” the ISPR communique stated. “He emphasised Pakistan’s support for peace, stability, and institutional development in Libya.”
Ceremonial Honors and Historical Context
The Libyan military chief, who was accompanied by Deputy Commander Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, was received with full ceremonial honors. Upon his arrival at Noor Khan Airbase, Field Marshal Haftar was greeted by Field Marshal Munir. The visiting dignitary also paid homage to Pakistan’s martyrs by laying a wreath at the memorial in GHQ.
The high-level engagement follows a meeting between the two military leaders in December of last year and comes in the wake of a reported multi-billion-dollar agreement for Pakistan to sell conventional military equipment to Libya, signaling a deepening of defense ties.
Parallel Talks on Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
In a separate but related development, Field Marshal Munir also met with Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) Secretary General Major General Mohammed Bin Saeed Al-Moghedi at GHQ. Their discussions emphasized enhanced cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts, intelligence sharing, and capacity building.
“Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism and extremism through collaborative strategies,” the ISPR reported. Major General Al-Moghedi acknowledged Pakistan’s significant contributions and sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism.
The IMCTC delegation is in Pakistan for a week-long training program at the National University of Sciences and Technology focused on the “Re-integration and rehabilitation of extremist elements,” highlighting Pakistan’s role as a key partner in regional security initiatives.
