OTTAWA: General Jonathan Vance, Chief of Defence Staff, Canadian Armed Forces has agreed with the High Commissioner of Pakistan in Ottawa, Raza Bashir Tarar to further explore the avenues for defence and security cooperation and enhance collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

High Commissioner Raza Bashir Tarar met with General Jonathan Vance, Chief of Defence Staff, Canadian Armed Forces to discuss defence and security relations at all levels between Pakistan and Canada, PID reported

High Commissioner Tarar briefed the Chief of Defence Staff on the regional situation including Pakistan’s cooperation in US led peace efforts in Afghanistan. He informed that a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan is in the interest of regional countries, including Pakistan. The High Commissioner said that Pakistan would like to have enhanced defence and security cooperation including participation of Canadian Armed Forces officers in the short, medium and long-term courses in Pakistan’s armed forces institution.

The High Commissioner further underlined that collaboration in the field of joint exercises between armed forces of both the countries will be mutually beneficial.

General Vance appreciated important role being played by Pakistan towards regional peace and stability. He also noted Pakistan’s vital role in bringing peace in Afghanistan.