Pakistan, Libya Explore Expanded Military Cooperation as Army Chief Visits Tripoli

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, held high-level talks with Libya’s top military leadership during an official visit to the North African country, focusing on regional security, counter-terrorism and defence cooperation, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

During the visit, Field Marshal Munir called on Field Marshal Khalifa Belqasim Haftar, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, and Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, Deputy Commander-in-Chief, the military’s media wing said.

Upon arrival, the Pakistan Army chief was accorded a guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Libyan Armed Forces, reflecting the importance attached to the visit.

Focus on Security and Military Cooperation

According to ISPR, the meeting covered matters of mutual interest, evolving regional and global security dynamics, and avenues for enhancing bilateral defence and military-to-military cooperation.

Both sides emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration in key areas, including:

• Professional military training
• Capacity building and skill development
• Counter-terrorism and security cooperation

The discussions come at a time when Libya continues to face complex security challenges, while Pakistan remains actively engaged in international efforts to combat terrorism and promote regional stability.

Commitment to Stronger Defence Ties

Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding defence relations with Libya, stressing that cooperation would be pursued on the basis of shared interests, mutual respect and professional engagement.

He underscored Pakistan Armed Forces’ experience in counter-terrorism operations and institutional training, areas in which Pakistan has long provided support to friendly countries through military training programmes and advisory roles.

Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, in turn, praised the professionalism and operational experience of the Pakistan Armed Forces and expressed Libya’s desire to further deepen defence cooperation between the two countries.

Senior Pakistani Officials Present

The meeting was also attended by Major General Faisal Naseer, Director General of Counter-Intelligence, highlighting the strategic nature of the discussions.

Broader Diplomatic Context

Pakistan and Libya have traditionally maintained cordial relations, with defence cooperation forming an important pillar of bilateral engagement. Defence analysts say the visit signals Pakistan’s continued outreach to countries in Africa and the Middle East, aimed at strengthening military diplomacy, sharing operational expertise, and contributing to regional peace and stability.