Defence (Pakistan, Ukraine to promote defence cooperation)

Pakistan and Ukraine have expressed the desire to establish and promote a more meaningful and useful military an defence cooperation for the mutual benefits of the two countries. This was discussed in a meeting between Federal Minister for Defence, Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar and the Ambassador of Ukraine to Pakistan, MR. Ihor Paslo, who called on the Minister here Tuesday. The meeting exchanged views on matters of bilateral importance and noted that there existed a vast scope of cooperation in the areas of trade, economy and defence, which needed to be utilized for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

Both sides emphasized the need for the exchange of visits by the political and military leadership of the two countries, which would help in promoting greater understanding and bringing the two countries closer as well as enabling them to learn and benefit of each others experience.

The envoy also highlighted the contribution made by Ukraine towards the defence sector of Pakistan particularly the project of Al-Khalid Tank.

Minister said that Pakistan was highly appreciative of the Ukraine assistance and expressed the hope that Ukraine would continue to assist Pakistan in the field of defence collaboration.

The meeting said that there were enormous investment opportunities for the business community of two countries in various fields and it was imperative to benefit of these opportunities and the enabling environment.

The envoy informed the Minister that an exhibition would be arranged for the Pakistani products in Kiev, Ukraine, October 2008, which would provide an opportunity to the two sides to promote trade and business ties.

The Ambassador also conveyed the best wishes and congratulation to the Minister on behalf of the defence Minister of Ukraine on assuming the charge of the Minister for Defence.