King Abdullah visits GIDS and Tilla shooting ranges; Salutes the operational capabilities of the army
King Abdullah II receives a briefing during a visit to the Tilla Field shooting ranges. Photo: APP
ISLAMABAD:
Jordan’s King Abdullah on Sunday praised the operational capabilities of Pakistani soldiers as the country’s civilian and military leaders reiterated their commitment to further strengthening military cooperation with the Hashemite kingdom.
King Abdullah, who was on a two-day visit to Pakistan, spent a busy day visiting the Global Industrial and Defense Solutions (GIDS), Tilla Firing Ranges and Aiwan-e-Sadr, where he held discussions 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 army 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 the structure, capabilities and product portfolio of GIDS. The briefing showcased Pakistan’s progress in national defense production, technological innovation and opportunities for bilateral defense cooperation, according to a military statement.
Later, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), King Abdullah II visited the Tilla Field shooting ranges. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijani Defense Minister Vugar Valeh oglu Mustafayev were also present on the occasion. The guests witnessed a joint fire and maneuver exercise.
“The exercise demonstrated multi-domain operations including conventional and aerial firepower, coordinated maneuver and spectrum warfare capabilities supported by multi-role drones employed in various configurations and roles,” the ISPR said.
“King Abdullah II appreciated the high standards of training, professionalism, operational capabilities and readiness demonstrated by the participating troops and crews,” the statement added.
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 enduring friendship, mutual trust and a 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 cooperation with Jordan and jointly realize the mutual vision of a stable and peaceful region.
Previously, King Abdullah awarded the “Order of Military Merit, First Degree” to Field Marshal Asim Munir in recognition of his outstanding service and significant contributions to strengthening military cooperation between Jordan and Pakistan.
Separately, the Jordanian monarch met with President Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr. First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Senator Sherry Rehman also attended the meeting.
During the meeting, the President reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to closely cooperate with Jordan and further strengthen the long-standing 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 creation of a free, independent and viable Palestinian state within the framework of 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 movement of Palestinians,” according to a Pakistani television report.
King Abdullah II expressed pride in the “deep ties” between Jordan and Pakistan, reaffirming Amman’s commitment to expanding cooperation “in various sectors.” The two leaders also agreed to maintain close coordination on bilateral, regional and global issues.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, Foreign Minister and Ambassadors of Pakistan and Jordan were also present in the meeting.
Later, President Zardari conferred “Nishan-e-Pakistan” on King Abdullah II. The King of Jordan awarded President Zardari the “Wisam al-Nahda al-Murassa”, awarded to heads of state and distinguished individuals.
(WITH INPUT FROM THE APPLICATION)
