Gen Raheel discusses Afghan peace, terror fight with Tajik president

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif arrived on a day long official visit to Tajikistan on Tuesday and discussed common challenges of fighting terrorism and reconciliation process in Afghanistan with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon.

“Regional situation with particular reference to common challenges of fighting terrorism and reconciliation in Afghanistan, which shares a border with both countries, came under discussion,” said a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) here today.

The Tajik president appreciated Pakistan’s facilitation role in reconciliation process in Afghanistan and also lauded Pakistan Army's phenomenal achievements in operation Zarb-e-Azab . He noted with admiration that the operation being conducted by Pakistani forces against terrorists is a role model for rest of the world.

President Rahmon said that General Raheel Sharif’s visit will further cement bilateral relationship with Pakistan and provide an impetus to defence cooperation between the two countries. 

During the meeting, the COAS said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Tajikistan and offered Pakistan’s full support in capacity building of Tajikistan forces to counter terrorism.

The Army Chief also held a meeting with Tajik Defence Minister and Chief of General Staff. 

On arrival at the Army Headquarter, he was accorded very warm welcome and presented guard of honour.  Gen Raheel also visited Military Institute and Military Training Center of Tajikistan.