King Abdullah visits GIDS, Tilla Firing Ranges; Praises the operational capacity 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 enhance 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.
Upon 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, consisting of Jordanian civil and military officials.
During the visit, the King learned about the structure, capabilities and product portfolio of GIDS. The briefing showcased Pakistan’s progress in local defense production, technological innovation and possible avenues for bilateral defense cooperation, according to a military statement.
Later, according to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), King Abdullah II visited the Tilla Field firing ranges. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Defense Minister of Azerbaijan Vugar Valeh oglu Mustafayev were also present on the occasion. The guests witnessed a joint shooting and maneuver exercise.
“The exercise demonstrated multi-domain operations, including conventional and aerial firepower, coordinated maneuvers and spectrum warfare capabilities supported by multi-purpose drones employed in various configurations and roles,” the ISPR said.
“King Abdullah II appreciated the high standards of training, professionalism and operational capabilities and readiness demonstrated by the participating troops and aircrew,” he 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 long-standing friendship, mutual trust and a shared 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 to jointly realize the mutual vision of a stable and peaceful region.
Earlier, King Abdullah conferred the ‘Order of Military Merit of the First Degree’ on Field Marshal Asim Munir in recognition of his outstanding service and significant contributions to strengthening military cooperation between Jordan and Pakistan.
On the other hand, the Jordanian monarch met with President Zardari in 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 closely cooperate with Jordan and further strengthen the long-standing 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 shared 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 question of Palestine, President Zardari and King Abdullah noted a “convergence of views” and reiterated their shared stance on post-war Gaza. According to a Pakistani television report, they “rejected any displacement of Palestinians.”
King Abdullah II expressed pride in the “deep-rooted ties” between Jordan and Pakistan, reaffirming Amman’s commitment to expanding cooperation “in 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 Change Minister Musadik Malik, Foreign Secretary and ambassadors of Pakistan and Jordan were also present at 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’, which is conferred on heads of state and distinguished personalities.
(WITH INPUT FROM THE APP)
