General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), undertook a high-level official visit to Australia to participate in the 14th session of the Annual Defence and Security Talks an important bilateral forum aimed at deepening strategic engagement and expanding defence cooperation between the two nations.
During his visit, the CJCSC held wide-ranging discussions with Australia’s top civilian and military leadership, including Admiral David Johnston, Chief of Defence Forces; Mr Andrew Shearer, Director-General of the Office of National Intelligence (ONI); Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Chief of the Australian Army; and Ms Gemma Huggins, Ambassador for Counter-Terrorism at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The Annual Defence and Security Talks provided both sides with an opportunity to enhance mutual understanding and explore new avenues for collaboration. The dialogue focused on a comprehensive spectrum of issues, including the evolving global and regional security dynamics, shared strategic interests, and prospects for intensifying military-to-military cooperation.
As part of his official engagements, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza delivered a keynote address at the Australian Defence College (ADC) on Pakistan’s Security Perspective, where he highlighted the country’s pivotal role in promoting regional peace and stability. His address was received with keen interest by senior officials, strategic scholars, and members of the defence community.
The CJCSC also visited HMAS Adelaide, one of the Royal Australian Navy’s largest amphibious warships, where he was briefed on the vessel’s operational capabilities and maritime interoperability frameworks.
In a ceremonial welcome upon his arrival at the Office of the Chief of Defence Forces, General Mirza was presented with a guard of honour by a smartly turned-out tri-services contingent, underscoring the spirit of mutual respect and camaraderie between the two militaries.
The visit marks a significant step in reinforcing Pakistan’s defence diplomacy and reaffirms the commitment of both nations to working together in pursuit of regional and global security objectives.
