ISLAMABAD: In a significant development underscoring deepeningmilitary-to-military relations, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab ArmedForces Field Marshal Khalifa Abu al-Qasim Haftar called on Chief of ArmyStaff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at GeneralHeadquarters here on Monday. The visit, accompanied by DeputyCommander-in-Chief Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, marked a keymilestone in bilateral engagement following reciprocal high-levelinteractions. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations, both sidesexchanged views on matters of mutual interest, focusing particularly onsecurity dynamics in their respective regions and avenues for enhancedprofessional cooperation.
The meeting comes against the backdrop of Pakistan’s strategic outreach tostabilise defence partnerships in Africa, especially with Libya navigatingpost-conflict reconstruction and security challenges since the 2011upheaval. Field Marshal Asim Munir welcomed the distinguished guests warmlyand reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to strengthening bilateralrelations with Libya. This pledge builds on earlier discussions during AsimMunir’s December 2025 visit to Benghazi, where he met Haftar and emphasisedshared interests in counterterrorism, training, and capacity building.
Discussions during the GHQ meeting centred on regional securityenvironments, with both militaries acknowledging common threats such asterrorism and instability that transcend borders. Pakistan’s armed forces,renowned for their professionalism and experience in counter-insurgencyoperations, were highlighted as a valuable partner for Libya’s efforts toconsolidate control and build institutional capabilities. The Libyandelegation expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s contributions to globalpeacekeeping and its willingness to share expertise in military trainingand defence industry collaboration.
Inter-Services Public Relations detailed that the talks included potentialareas for joint exercises, exchange programmes for officers, and technicalcooperation to address contemporary security challenges. Such initiativesalign with Pakistan’s broader foreign policy of fostering defence diplomacyto enhance strategic depth and economic opportunities through militaryexports and joint ventures. Libya, controlling significant oil resourcesand facing fragmented governance, seeks reliable partners to modernise itsforces amid ongoing reconciliation efforts.
The visit reflects a pattern of quiet but impactful diplomacy between thetwo nations, which have maintained cordial ties historically butintensified engagements recently. Earlier interactions, including SaddamHaftar’s reported visit to Islamabad in 2025, laid groundwork foragreements potentially worth billions in military equipment and expertiseexchange. These steps signal Pakistan’s interest in diversifying defencepartnerships beyond traditional allies, tapping into emerging markets inthe Middle East and Africa.
Field Marshal Haftar’s delegation arrival at Noor Khan Airbase was markedby protocol reception led by Field Marshal Asim Munir himself, underscoringthe importance attached to the engagement. The cordial atmosphere duringthe meeting reinforced mutual respect and goodwill, with both leadersexpressing desire to expand cooperation across multiple domains. Thishigh-level interaction is expected to pave the way for concrete follow-upmechanisms, including delegations and working groups to implement agreedinitiatives.
Observers note that strengthened Pakistan-Libya ties could contribute tostability in the Mediterranean region, where Libya’s security directlyimpacts migration flows, energy supplies, and counterterrorism effortsaffecting Europe and beyond. Pakistan’s expertise in mountainous andasymmetric warfare complements Libya’s requirements in desert and urbanoperations, creating synergies for collaborative training. The meeting alsohighlighted the role of military diplomacy in bridging gaps where politicalchannels face constraints due to Libya’s complex internal dynamics.
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In reaffirming commitments, both sides emphasised that robust armed forcesguarantee national sovereignty and stability. The engagement aligns withPakistan’s vision of proactive regional outreach, positioning it as adependable partner in defence and security matters. As discussionsconcluded, invitations for future visits were extended, indicatingsustained momentum in bilateral military relations.
This development holds implications for broader geopolitical alignments, asPakistan seeks to balance relations across the Muslim world while advancingits defence industrial base through international collaborations. Libya, inturn, benefits from access to proven training models and equipment suitedto its operational needs. The GHQ meeting thus represents a pragmatic steptowards mutually beneficial partnership grounded in shared strategicpriorities.
Arab Armed Forces, General Headquarters
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