The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, paid a visit to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, on Wednesday afternoon. During the meeting, the Chinese Ambassador praised the steadfast determination of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) leadership in maintaining a balance of power in the region.
Key Highlights:
- Geo-strategic Environment and Regional Developments: The discussion encompassed matters related to the evolving geo-strategic environment and regional developments.
- Operational Training Framework: Both parties highlighted the need to revitalize the framework for operational training across all domains. The paramount importance of preparedness and seamless coordination in the face of evolving security challenges was emphasized.
- PAF’s Modernization Drive: Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu shared insights into PAF’s modernization drive, aiming to transform it into a Next Generation Air Force. The focus is on the induction of niche technologies, indigenization, and revamping training methodologies.
- Deepening Aviation Cooperation: The Air Chief expressed the PAF’s desire to deepen existing aviation cooperation and exchanges with China, particularly in the fields of human resources and technology. This collaborative approach aims to jointly address shared security challenges.
- Longstanding Strategic Partnership: The Air Chief highlighted the significance of the longstanding strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. The strong diplomatic, economic, and defense relationship, based on convergence on crucial regional issues, was emphasized.
- Commitment to Regional Peace: The Chinese Ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in promoting regional peace. Both dignitaries expressed a firm commitment to fostering bilateral and multilateral operational exercises to fortify a collective response to emerging threats in the region.
- Collaboration on Cutting-edge Technologies: There was a mutual emphasis on enhanced air force collaboration, particularly in cutting-edge niche technologies such as cyber, space, and electronic warfare domains.
The meeting signifies the strong commitment of both nations to consolidate their strategic partnership through continued dialogue and military collaboration. The collaborative efforts aim to strengthen regional peace, security, and stability.
