Pakistan, DR Congo sign MoU to strengthen defence and security cooperation

RAWALPINDI: A high-level defence delegation from the Democratic Republic of Congo, led by Chief of Defence Lieutenant General Banza Mwilambwe Jules, held talks with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at General Headquarters (GHQ) on Friday, with both sides agreeing to strengthen bilateral defence and security cooperation.

The delegation met Field Marshal Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, to discuss matters of mutual interest, the regional security environment and opportunities for expanding defence ties between Pakistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The two sides expressed satisfaction with their longstanding cordial relations and agreed to broaden cooperation in defence and security.

During the meeting, Pakistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening and expanding bilateral defence and security cooperation.

The visiting defence chief also praised the professionalism and operational capabilities of Pakistan’s armed forces, as well as their commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability.

He acknowledged Pakistan’s progress in defence indigenisation and self-reliance, highlighting the country’s efforts to strengthen its domestic defence capabilities.

Upon his arrival at GHQ, Lieutenant General Jules received a Guard of Honour from a smartly turned-out tri-services contingent.

Earlier, the Congolese defence chief held separate meetings with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu.

The meetings underscored growing defence engagement between Pakistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo amid discussions on regional security and military cooperation.