Pak HC in UK hosts reception for army chief

The Pakistan High Commission hosted a reception here in the honour of General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who is on official visit to U.K.

Gen. Bajwa interacted with UK-based Pakistani community, apprising them about the environment in Pakistan, achievements in efforts against terrorism and militancy and projected its results through whole of nation approach.

According to an ISPR release, Gen. Bajwa hailed the role of oversees Pakistanis towards the progress of Pakistan and assured them that the Pakistan Army shall perform its due role towards security of Pakistan.

All Pakistanis expressed their pride in role and contributions of Pakistan Army towards well being of Pakistan.

Earlier, on arrival, Gen. Bajwa was received by Pakistan's High Commissioner to the UK, Syed Ibne Abbas.

According to The Nation, General Bajwa used his visit to London to inform his British counterpart that Pakistan's eastern and western borders were currently vulnerable and that its relations with both India and Afghanistan were a matter of concern for Islamabad.

He also informed Pakistani diaspora that he was optimistic about relations with India being normalised.

According to the daily, General Bajwa met YK Chief of General Staff General Sir Nick Carter, reviewed a guard of honour at Horse Guards Square, had separate meetings with UK Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, Special Representative on Afghanistan and Pakistan Mr. Owen Jenkins and also US Resolute Support Mission (RSM) Commander General John Nicholson.

Matters of mutual interest including regional geo-political environment with special reference to Afghanistan came under discussion. The UK leadership and RSM Commander appreciated and acknowledged positive role played by Pakistan and Pakistan Army towards peace and stability.

Gen. Bajwa also highlighted that CPEC should be viewed as an economic manoeuvre since it aims at fostering inclusive development in best interest of the region and beyond. He thanked UK leadership for their assistance during war on terror.