Rawalpindi, In a significant move to enhance regional defence cooperation, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), visited Iraq this week and held high-level talks with Lieutenant General Staff Pilot Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi, Commander of the Iraqi Air Force.
The Air Chief was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Iraqi Air Force Headquarters, a gesture underscoring the deep respect and historical ties between the two nations.
During the discussions, both leaders emphasized strengthening bilateral military cooperation, focusing on joint training programs, capacity building, and operational coordination. Air Chief Sidhu highlighted the longstanding religious, cultural, and historical connections between Pakistan and Iraq, reaffirming PAF’s commitment to supporting the Iraqi Air Force in developing its training and operational capabilities.
Both sides agreed to pursue joint exercises and collaborative training initiatives to enhance interoperability between their forces. The Iraqi Air Chief expressed admiration for PAF’s professionalism and technological expertise and showed particular interest in Pakistan’s world-class training programs. He also voiced keen interest in acquiring JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and Super Mushshak trainer aircraft.
The discussions also highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability, further cementing the mutual commitment of both Air Forces to professional collaboration and defence partnership.
This visit marks a new chapter in Pakistan-Iraq defence relations, signaling closer cooperation and shared resolve to strengthen air power capabilities in the region.
