ISLAMABAD, Friday, July 18, 2025 (WNP): In a significant boost to bilateral defence cooperation, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Abu Qasim Haftar, held a series of high-level meetings in Islamabad on Friday with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and top military leadership of Pakistan.

During a meeting at the Prime Minister’s House, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed the Libyan military chief and his delegation, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening multifaceted cooperation with Libya. Both sides discussed avenues to enhance collaboration in defence, security, and other sectors of mutual interest.

Expressing gratitude for the hospitality, Lieutenant General Haftar appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in fostering regional peace and stability. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Defence Production Raza Hayat Hiraj, Advisor Dr. Tauqir Shah, SAPM Tariq Fatemi, and senior government officials.

The Libyan military chief also visited Naval Headquarters where he was received by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf. The two leaders discussed the regional maritime security environment and explored opportunities for expanded cooperation in naval training and joint defence initiatives.

Admiral Ashraf briefed the Libyan commander on Pakistan Navy’s efforts to safeguard regional waters through initiatives such as the Regional Maritime Security Patrols. Lieutenant General Haftar commended Pakistan Navy’s contributions to maritime peace and pledged closer collaboration in the naval domain.

At General Headquarters (GHQ), the Libyan Commander-in-Chief was accorded a ceremonial welcome, including a guard of honour and wreath-laying at Yadgar-e-Shuhada to honour Pakistan’s fallen soldiers.

He later held a detailed meeting with Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, where both leaders discussed evolving regional dynamics, emerging security challenges, and strategies for defence-industrial cooperation. They agreed to boost exchange of technical expertise and develop joint mechanisms to address shared security concerns.

Pakistan and Libya enjoy longstanding brotherly ties rooted in shared values and mutual respect. Lieutenant General Haftar’s visit is expected to reinvigorate defence cooperation and usher in a new chapter of strategic engagement between the two nations.