The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Islamabad

Chief of Army Staff General Moeen U Ahmed yesterday made a courtesy call on Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and discussed matters of mutual interests.

General Moeen also called on Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gillani, Joint Chief of Staff Committee General Tariq Majid, Defence Minister Chowdhury Ahmed Mukhtar, Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Noman Bashir and acting Air Chief Air Marshal Shahid Lateef.

During these meetings, they exchanged views on matters of mutual cooperation in the fields of trade, commerce, agriculture and cultural development and development of the armed forces of the two countries.

They expressed the hope that trade and commerce between Bangladesh and Pakistan would be increased further when the direct shipping line is established between the port cities of Chittagong and Karachi.

General Moeen, on behalf of the people of Bangladesh, expressed sympathy over the recent bomb explosion and the loss of lives in Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.

During his meetings with the high officials of Pakistan armed forces, General Moeen expressed confidence that the existing defence cooperation between the two countries would be further cemented in the years to come.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Yasmeen Murshed was present during the meetings.

The army chief is now in Pakistan on a six-day official visit.