Islamabad: Lebanese Army Commander Gen. Rodolphe Haykal and Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir engaged in discussions on regional developments, defense cooperation, and security-related issues during Haykal's three-day visit to Pakistan, the Lebanese army reported Wednesday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Haykal's visit was initiated by an invitation from his Pakistani counterpart and commenced with an official reception ceremony at the General Headquarters of the Pakistan Army. The ceremony featured a joint honor guard from the country's land, naval, and air forces. The military chiefs deliberated on regional developments and issues of mutual interest, focusing particularly on security and defense matters.

Munir highlighted the significance of the historic ties between Pakistan and Lebanon, while Haykal commended the professionalism of the Pakistani army and its role in promoting regional security, stability, and contributions to international peacekeeping efforts.

A broader meeting with senior officers from both nations was conducted to explore ways of enhancing cooperation between the two armies, notably in training. Discussions also centered on mechanisms for supporting the Lebanese army amid current challenges.

During his visit, Haykal toured several Pakistani defense companies and military manufacturing facilities, where he was briefed on defense innovation technologies and military industrial capabilities. He discussed areas of mutual interest and opportunities for future cooperation with Pakistani defense officials.

The visit occurs in the context of ongoing Israeli aggression in Lebanon, despite a fragile ceasefire initially effective from April 17 and later extended under US sponsorship until early July. Since March 2, Israel has been executing a large-scale offensive in Lebanon associated with the regional conflict involving Iran. The campaign has resulted in 3,696 deaths and 11,413 injuries as of Wednesday, displacing more than 1 million people, according to official figures.