ISLAMABAD, Feb 1 (INP): The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, called on Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu here. He lauded the steadfast determination of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) leadership to ensure balance of power in the region. During the meeting, matters pertaining to evolving geo-strategic environment and regional developments were discussed, a PAF statement said. The dignitaries underscored the necessity of revitalizing the framework for operational training across all domains, emphasizing the paramount importance of preparedness and seamless coordination in the face of evolving security challenges. The Air Chief shared broad contours of the PAF’s modernization drive in order to transform Pakistan Air Force into a Next Generation Air Force through induction of niche technologies with a special focus on indigenization and revamping of training.

Highlighting the significance of the longstanding strategic partnership between the two countries, he emphasized that the PAF leadership wished to further deepen the existing aviation cooperation and exchanges with China in the fields of human resource and technology so as to jointly address shared security challenges. He added: “Pakistan values its strong diplomatic, economic, defence relationship and time-tested friendship with China which are based on convergence on all important issues relating to regional peace, security and stability. The visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan's efforts in promoting regional peace.

Both the dignitaries emphasized the need for enhanced air force to air force collaboration, with a particular emphasis on cutting-edge niche technologies in cyber, space and electronic warfare domains. They also expressed a firm commitment to fostering bilateral and multilateral operational exercises, aimed at fortifying collective response to emerging threats in the region. "The meeting between the Chinese envoy and Chief of the Air Staff is a testament to the strong commitment of both nations to further consolidate their strategic partnership through continued dialogue and military collaboration," the PAF statement said.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China