Aaj News

Turkish minister meets PAF chief, discusses defence collaboration

Cooperation in advanced warfare technologies comes under discussion
Published 09 Jul, 2025 02:35pm

A high-level Turkish delegation led by Minister of National Defence Yaşar Güler visited the Air Headquarters in Islamabad on Wednesday, where it met Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu.

The meeting focused on the evolving regional security situation, ongoing progress in defence collaboration, and future opportunities in emerging domains of warfare.

Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Sidhu highlighted the deep-rooted brotherly relations between Pakistan and Türkiye, emphasising shared objectives and strategic harmony between the two nations.

He reaffirmed the Pakistan Air Force’s unwavering commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in advanced training and aerospace technology.

Both sides agreed to establish joint working groups to fast-track practical collaboration across areas of mutual interest and to ensure effective implementation of shared initiatives.

Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome extended by the Pakistan Air Force and lauded its exemplary performance during the recent Pak-India tensions.

He praised the Air Chief’s leadership in upholding national sovereignty with professionalism and resolve.

Underscoring the historical and long-standing ties between Pakistan and Türkiye, Güler reiterated his country’s intent to deepen defence collaboration, particularly in avionics, next-generation warfare technologies, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

He also acknowledged Pakistan’s consistent support for the pilot exchange programme, terming it vital for professional development and operational synergy between the two air forces.

The two defence leaders also agreed to expand training cooperation and broaden the scope of bilateral and multinational air exercises in the future.

This visit by Türkiye’s defence minister reflects the mutual commitment of both nations to strengthening strategic defence ties, enhancing institutional military linkages, and promoting lasting cooperation between their armed forces.

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Turkiye

defence cooperation

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