Jammu. 23 August, 2017. Indian and Pakistan Army held a Battalion Commander Level Flag Meeting at Chakan – Da – Bagh in Poonch Sector at 1100 hours on 23 Aug 17, in the backdrop of numerous cease fire violations and casualties to civilian population in the past several months.
The Indian delegation highlighted abetement and support of Pakistan Army, to cross border terrorism, sniping actions on Line of Control and deliberate targeting of civil population during cease fire violations. The resumption of trade and transit through Chakan -Da- Bagh was also discussed during the Flag Meeting.
The meeting lasted for 50 minutes in a cordial atmosphere. Both sides mutually agreed to the importance of exercising restraint on the Line of Control and keeping the channels of communication open between local commanders. Both sides also agreed for necessity to institute mechanisms to ensure durable peace and tranquility along the Line of Control.
It was a day of pats on the back for Pakistan. David Hale, US Ambassador to Pakistan called on Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa and briefed about the new US Policy.The Ambassador said that US values Pakistan’s role in the war against terror and is seeking cooperation from Pakistan to resolve the Afghan issue. “COAS said that peace in Afghanistan is as important for Pakistan as for any other country. We have done a lot towards that end and shall keep on doing our best, not to appease anyone but in line with our national interest and national policy. COAS said that we are not looking for any material or financial assistance from USA but trust, understanding and acknowledgement of our contributions. Collaboration and synergy of effort between all stakeholders is the key to success to bring this long drawn war in Afghanistan to its logical conclusion, COAS concluded.” It was a subdued and defensive Pakistan Chief post American President made his statement on Pakistan’s role in harbouring terrorists.
