RAWALPINDI: Turkish Air Force Chief General Ziya Cemal Kadioglu praised Pakistan’s Air Force for what he called its “outstanding operational performance” during the recent conflict with India, crediting the “visionary leadership” of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu.

A high-level delegation of Turkish Air Force arrived Pakistan on an official visit on Wednesday. The delegation headed by General Ziya Cemal Kadioglu, Commander Turkish Air Force, was accorded a warm welcome at the Air Headquarters.

A smartly turned-out contingent of Pakistan Air Force presented Guard of Honour to the Commander of the Turkish Air Force. Later, the delegation called on Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force.

The two sides discussed the regional security, progress in ongoing defence collaboration and prospects of joint engagement in new domains of modern warfare.

During the meeting, Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu highlighted the deep-rooted brotherly ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, based on religious beliefs, aspirations and strategic alignment that continue to bring both the nations closer.

He underscored that the arrival of the first batch of Turkish cadets at PAF Academy Asghar Khan for training marks a significant milestone in the enduring fraternal ties between the two Air Forces. The development marks a new chapter in the existing defence partnership between the two countries, underscoring mutual trust and the shared vision of building the next generation of air warriors.

Both Commanders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation across multiple spheres, with particular emphasis on joint training, mutual exercises and multi domain operations.

General Ziya Cemal Kadioglu lauded the force’s operational readiness and its “resolute defence of national sovereignty.” He expressed keen interest in gaining comprehensive insight into the methodology of multi-domain warfare, drawing on the PAF’s tested operational strategies and success in the conflict.

The Turkish Air Force leadership also expressed earnest desire in studying the operational lessons derived from the military standoff between Pakistan and India, with the aim to further strengthening its own doctrine and enhancing overall preparedness.

The visiting dignitary showed profound appreciation for the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park and lauded the indigenous capabilities developed by PAF in the realm of aerospace innovation, technological advancement and operational self-reliance.

Both sides reiterated their resolve to learn from each other’s experiences and move forward as a cohesive team, building on shared knowledge and operational expertise.

The visit of Turkish Air Force delegation to Air Headquarters, Islamabad, symbolises the mutual resolve of both brotherly nations to enhance strategic cooperation, reinforce bilateral defence relations and promote enduring institutional ties between the Armed Forces of Pakistan and Turkiye.