Air Chief Marshal Sidhu on official visit to Türkiye to deepen defence and strategic ties

Discussions focus on joint training, military exercises, and aerospace innovation.

Air Chief Marshal Sidhu on official visit to Türkiye to deepen defence and strategic ties
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu on official visit to Türkiye to deepen defence and strategic ties

ISLAMABAD: Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidh, is on an official visit to Türkiye, where he engaged in a series of high-level meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral defence relations and expanding cooperation in aviation, aerospace, and advanced technologies.

Upon arrival at the Turkish Air Force Headquarters, the Air Chief was accorded a Guard of Honour, reflecting the longstanding and friendly military ties between the two countries.

During his visit, he held detailed discussions with the Commander of the Turkish Air Force, General Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu, where both sides reviewed avenues to further enhance collaboration in defence and aerospace sectors.

The meetings also underscored the importance of expanding cooperation through joint training programmes, military exercises, and professional exchanges to improve operational coordination and mutual capability development.

The Air Chief also called on Türkiye’s Minister of National Defence, Yaşar Güler, where matters related to the historic and strategic relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye came under discussion. Both sides reiterated their commitment to broadening cooperation in training, capacity building, and aerospace development.

In addition, he met with Selçuk Bayraktar, Head of Baykar Technologies, focusing on opportunities for cooperation in emerging technologies and modern defence innovation.

Turkish military officials acknowledged and appreciated the Pakistan Air Force’s contribution to the training of Turkish pilots, highlighting its role in strengthening professional expertise and enhancing operational readiness.

The visit reflects the shared resolve of both countries to further deepen defence ties and explore new pathways in aviation, aerospace innovation, and technological advancement.