Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on Wednesday said Pakistan's conventional arms capability was important for peace in the region, adding that $1.3 billion arms sale will help meet its defence needs. He was talking to General John P. Abizaid, commander, US Central Command (Centcom), who called on him at the PM House. Shaukat Aziz appreciated Pak-US Armed Forces co-operation, saying it was important for peace in the region that the country maintains conventional arms capability.
He said Pakistan needs to upgrade its defence capability for its three services and appreciates the US co-operation in this regard.
Shaukat Aziz said the decision by US Congress to provide $1.3 billion arms sale to Pakistan would help maintain Pakistan's conventional arms capability, adding Pakistan is striving for peace and stability in the region and working for close and friendly relations with all its neighbours.
He said Pakistan was trying to improve expertise and skills of its armed forces so that peace is assured in the region.
The prime minister also discussed the current geo-political situation with General Abizaid.
He said Pakistan supports a strong and stable Afghanistan which would be a stabilising factor in the region.