On Thursday, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), attended the 12th International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS-2024) in Karachi, where he held extensive discussions with officials from various countries.
During his visit, General Mirza held separate meetings with numerous high-ranking officials, including defense ministers, armed forces commanders, and other key figures from countries such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Argentina, Malaysia, the UAE, Cambodia, Eswatini, Gambia, Brunei, the Maldives, and Malawi. These talks primarily focused on strengthening defense and security cooperation, particularly in defense production.
The participating dignitaries expressed a keen interest in enhancing their collaboration with Pakistan’s defense sector.
General Mirza also delivered a keynote address at a seminar titled “Pakistan’s Defence Production and Potential: Challenges and Way Forward,” where he highlighted the critical role of Pakistan’s defense industry in equipping the nation’s battle-ready armed forces. He emphasized that through superior research and development (R&D) and innovative, cost-effective solutions, Pakistan’s defense sector is not only meeting the country’s defense needs but also exploring opportunities for international collaboration in the global defense market.
The CJCSC noted that IDEAS provides an excellent platform to showcase Pakistan’s well-established Defence Industrial Complex to the global community. He also visited the Pakistan Pavilion and commended the efforts of the country’s Tri-Services in presenting indigenous defense equipment that meets global standards. General Mirza extended his appreciation to the Defence Export Promotion Organization (DEPO) for organizing the event and thanked foreign companies for their active participation.
The 12th edition of IDEAS-2024, held at the Expo Center Karachi from November 19 to 22, 2024, was organized by DEPO to promote defense exports and strengthen international defense ties.
