The 12th Round of the Pakistan-Turkey High Level Military Dialogue Group (HLMDG) was held at the Ministry of Defense of Pakistan in Rawalpindi from 25-26th January 2017. Lt Gen (Retd) Zamir-ul-Hasan Shah, Secretary of Defense led the Pakistan delegation while the Turkish delegation was led by General Ümit Dündar, Deputy Chief of the Turkish General Staff of the Republic of Turkey.

Prior to holding of the Plenary Session, General Ümit Dündar, had a meeting with Lt Gen (Retd) Zamir-ul-Hasan Shah. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest including the entire spectrum of bilateral defense cooperation were discussed. Both leaders expressed their concern on terrorist attacks in Pakistan and Turkey. The Secretary Defense apprised the visiting delegation about the successes achieved by Pakistan as a result of military Operation Zarb-e-Azb and the National Action Plan.

Both sides deliberated upon various areas of interest, including security, counter terrorism and the prevailing regional environment particularly with reference to Afghanistan and the Middle East. In addition, delegations took stock of the measures that have been taken since the last HLMDG meeting that was held in Turkey in October 2015.

General Ümit Dündar also held meetings with the Minister for Defense, Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee, Chief of the Army Staff and Chief of the Air Staff. In all of these meetings, matters relating to defense cooperation covering training, exchange visits and co-production of defense equipment were discussed. 

The highlight of the HLMDG meeting was that both sides agreed to work toward a Comprehensive Bilateral Strategic Framework Agreement which must encompass all facets of cooperation.

Talks were held in a most cordial and congenial atmosphere. Delegation leaders resolved to work together toward enhanced cooperation in defense and security related fields. It was agreed that 13th Round of the Pakistan-Turkey HLMDG meeting will be held in Turkey.