ISLAMABAD: General Oleg Salyukov, the commanderin-chief of the Russian Ground Forces, called on Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa at the General Headquarters on Tuesday.

During the meeting, matters relating to steps for enhanced security and measures to further expand ties between the two armies were discussed, said a press release issued here by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Gen Bajwa said that cooperation between the two countries would not only help improve peace and stability in the region, but would also usher in economic prosperity.

He declared that Pakistan did not believe in zerosum games, but rather integration and cooperation.

The visiting dignitary praised Pakistan Army`s professionalism and its achievements in the war against terrorism.

General Salyukov also expressed the Russian desire toforge strong and broad-based relations with Pakistan.

Earlier, the commander-in-chief of the Russian Ground Forces laid a wreath at Yadgar-i-Shuhada. A contingent of the army presented a guard of honour to the visiting dignitary.

Claire Landais, the secretary general for the National Defence & Security of France, also called on General Bajwa on Tuesday.

During their meeting matters of mutual interest, including defence and security cooperation and overall regional situation, were discussed, said an ISPR press release.

Both sides highlighted the need to increase militarylevel interactions between the two countries to bolster defence ties.

The visiting dignitary lauded the role of Pakistan Army in battling the scourge of terrorism in the country and for maintenance of peace and stability in the region.-APP