A high-level Turkish Air Force delegation called on Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, at Air Headquarters in Islamabad on Wednesday.
The delegation, led by General Ziya Cemal Kadioglu, Commander Turkish Air Force, received a warm and cordial welcome, with a Guard of Honour presented by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Air Force.
The discussions focused on the evolving regional security environment, progress in ongoing defence collaboration and fresh opportunities for engagement in modern domains of warfare. Both sides reiterated their determination to work together in strengthening existing military ties while opening avenues for new partnerships.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu highlighted the historical and fraternal ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, rooted in shared religious beliefs, aspirations and strategic alignment. He described the arrival of the first batch of Turkish cadets at PAF Academy Asghar Khan as a milestone in the enduring partnership, symbolising mutual trust and a shared vision to prepare the next generation of air warriors.
Both commanders reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced cooperation in joint training, mutual exercises and multi-domain operations.
General Kadioglu also praised the Pakistan Air Force’s outstanding operational performance and readiness, particularly during the recent conflict with India. He expressed deep interest in studying PAF’s multi-domain warfare methodology and operational strategies, acknowledging their success in safeguarding national sovereignty.
The Turkish Air Force leadership also conveyed its intent to incorporate operational lessons from the Pakistan-India standoff into its own defence doctrine.
The visiting delegation expressed strong appreciation for the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park, commending PAF’s indigenous capabilities in aerospace innovation, technological advancement and operational self-reliance. Both sides underlined the importance of learning from each other’s experiences and moving forward as a cohesive team.