Islamabad, The sixth Pakistan-UK Regional Stabilization Conference commenced yesterday at the National Defence University (NDU) in Islamabad, marking a significant bilateral event aimed at enhancing defense and security cooperation between the two nations.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the opening session was addressed by Pakistan Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir and his UK counterpart, General Sir Patrick Sanders. The event also saw the participation of the designate Chief of the General Staff of the UK Army, General Sir Roland Walker, underlining the importance of the conference as a cornerstone for dialogue on defense and security issues.

The conference, which alternates locations between Pakistan and the UK, gathers experts from various fields including diplomacy, defense, academia, and civil society. This year’s discussions have broadened from bilateral to regional topics, with a focus on the global and regional environment’s impact on national security and regional stability. A 30-member UK delegation, led by Major General Tom Bateman, Standing Joint Force Commander, is participating in the conference, which runs through May 3.

In a related development, General Munir held separate discussions with General Sanders and General Walker, where they reviewed professional matters and strategies to further strengthen bilateral defense relations. General Munir expressed gratitude to General Sanders for his efforts in fostering stronger military ties and congratulated General Walker on his upcoming role.