UK Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Admiral Sir Antony David Radakin has pledged to play his part for further improving cooperation on security with Pakistan at all levels, according to ISPR.

Radakin, who was appointed as the CDS on October 7, 2021, also lauded Pakistan’s role in the prevailing Afghanistan situation and regional stability during a telephone conversation with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

The COAS congratulated the admiral on assuming the new appointment and expressed hope that the latter would play his role in further strengthening cooperation between the two countries, read a statement issued from the military's media wing on Thursday.

Matters of mutual interest – including military cooperation, regional security and current security/humanitarian situation in Afghanistan – were discussed during the call.

COAS Gen Qamar stressed the need for urgency in devising an institutional mechanism for channelling humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in order to avert a looming humanitarian catastrophe. “Pakistan wants cordial ties with all its neighbours in pursuit of regional peace and prosperity,” he added.

Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador Wada Mitsuhiro called on COAS Gen Qamar.

“During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security, the current situation in Afghanistan especially collaboration/partnership in humanitarian assistance were discussed [between them],” read the ISPR handout.

“Pakistan values Japan’s role in global and regional affairs and we look forward to enhancing our bilateral relationship,” the COAS and further underscored the need for “swiftly” devising an institutionalised mechanism for channelling humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. He stressed the importance of peace and reconciliation initiatives in Afghanistan.

Gen Qamar said, “Peaceful resolution of Kashmir dispute is essential for stability in South Asia and that Pakistan wants cordial ties with all its neighbours in pursuit of regional peace and prosperity.”

The visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan’s role in the Afghan situation, efforts for regional stability and vowed to play his part for further improving diplomatic cooperation with Pakistan.