Defense cooperation is a key pillar of Pakistan’s enduring partnership with the US: Rizwan Saeed Sheikh

WASHINGTON, Sep 07 (SABAH): Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh has said Pakistan and the US continue to strengthen military-to-military relationship with particular focus on counter- terrorism, security cooperation, disaster relief, humanitarian assistance and military training.

Addressing an event in connection with Defense and Martyrs Day in Washington DC, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh said defense cooperation is a key pillar of Pakistan’s enduring partnership with the US.

Highlighting the huge price that Pakistan is paying in its ongoing fight against the menace of terrorism, Ambassador Rizwan Sheikh expressed the hope that international community would acknowledge the ultimate sacrifices and show solidarity with the people and armed forces of Pakistan.

The Ambassador expressed solidarity with the people of Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), calling on the international community to support their legitimate right to self-determination and raise their voices against the ongoing repression.

He said Pakistan’s Armed Forces have always responded promptly to any foreign threat or a domestic challenge and the brave and valiant soldiers have always lived up to the expectations of the nation.

The Ambassador also highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding commitment to international peace and security through its participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations and said that over 235,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in 48 missions worldwide, with 181 making the ultimate sacrifice since 1960.

Earlier, Defence Attache of Pakistan Brig Irfan Ali, in his remarks, highlighted professional skills and devotion of Pak Armed Forces. He paid a glowing tribute to all brave men and women of Armed Forces, paramilitary and law enforcement agencies who have laid down their lives suffered grievous bodily harm or mental psychological traumas in defense of their homeland.

The event was attended by a large number of diplomats, Defence, Military and Services Attaches, US officials and members of Pakistani community.