Islamabad, 10 August 2022 (TDI): The Commander of the Iraqi Navy, Lieutenant (Lt) General Ahmed Jasim Maarij Abdullah Al Zayid called on Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi at Naval Headquarters.
The Commander arrived at Pakistan Naval Headquarters on Wednesday and was received by the Naval Chief received the Commander of the Iraqi Navy.
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Pakistan Navy presented Guard of Honour to Lt General Jasim Maarij. Afterward, the Honourable Guest was introduced to Principal Staff Officers at Naval Headquarters.
During the meeting, the Chief of the Naval Staff and the visiting dignitary exchanged views on matters of mutual interest including bilateral collaborations and regional maritime security milieu.
The Naval Chief also highlighted the Pakistan Navy’s initiative of Regional Maritime Security Patrols for ensuring maritime security and peace in the region.
Subsequently, the visiting dignitary appreciated the Pakistan Navy’s efforts and initiatives in support of collaborative maritime security in the region.
Later, the Commander of the Iraqi Navy was given a detailed briefing on the Pakistan Navy’s roles and operational capabilities.
Fortunately, the visit of the Commander of the Iraqi Navy will further enhance bilateral collaboration between the two countries.
Pak-Iraq Relations
Following Pakistan’s independence, Iraq was the first Arab country to recognize Pakistan. Iraq also supported Islamabad in the 1971 war with India.
Besides, Iraq and Pakistan enjoy friendly relations in various fields. Pakistan values the historical connection and cooperation with Iraq and looks forward to enhancing the cooperation with the friendly country.
Previous Visits by Officials
Official visits by various dignitaries play a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations. In this regard, Naval Chief Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi went on an official visit to Iraq on 8 February 2022.
During the visit, the Naval Chief met Commander Iraqi Navy Admiral Ahmed Jaasim Maarij and Defence Minister Jumma Inad Sadoon Khattab, separately.
During the meetings, the officials discussed professional matters of mutual interest and bilateral maritime cooperation. The officials of the host country commended Pakistan Navy’s efforts for peace and stability in the region.
Lastly, Chief of Staff of the Pakistan Army General Qamar Jawed Bajwa visited Iraq in March 2021. The former Pakistani Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Quereshi also paid an official visit to the country, in May 2021.
In addition to that, President Dr. Arif Alvi called on the Iraqi Minister of Defense Lieutenant General Juma Inad Saadoun Al-Jubouri and his accompanying delegation during the General’s visit to Pakistan on 26 February 2021.
