A high-level Iraqi defence delegation, led by Lieutenant General Staff Pilot Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi, Commander of the Iraqi Air Force, visited Air Headquarters in Islamabad on Thursday. The delegation met with Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, to discuss military cooperation and training opportunities.
During the visit, a smartly turned-out Pakistan Air Force contingent presented a Guard of Honour to the Iraqi Commander, symbolizing the strong respect and long-standing ties between the two nations’ air forces. The meeting focused on joint training, capacity building, and advancement in the aviation sector.
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer highlighted the deep-rooted religious and historical bonds between Pakistan and Iraq, describing them as the foundation of enduring Air Force relations. He reaffirmed PAF’s commitment to providing support to Iraq in strengthening its training programs. Both commanders agreed on conducting joint exercises and initiatives to improve operational synergy and interoperability.
The Iraqi Commander expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended by PAF. He commended Pakistan Air Force’s modern, professional, and technologically advanced capabilities and conveyed Iraq’s strong desire to restructure its training system from basic to advanced operational levels.
He also emphasized the importance of exchange postings for Iraqi pilots to learn from PAF’s combat-proven professionals. Furthermore, the delegation visited the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park, National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre, and PAF Cyber Command, observing PAF’s innovative and forward-looking initiatives.
The visit underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthen military collaboration and foster robust defence relations. The discussions are expected to pave the way for modernised training programs, joint exercises, and long-term cooperation between the Iraqi and Pakistan Air Forces.