Islamabad: Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu has praised China’s significant contribution to Pakistan’s defense modernization and technological progress. He made these remarks during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Air Chief expressed deep appreciation for China’s unwavering support and friendship, referring to the two nations as “Iron Brothers.” He highlighted the enduring bond between Pakistan and China, which has grown stronger over the years and is expected to continue developing through ongoing cooperation and partnership.
The discussions between the Air Chief and the Ambassador covered a wide range of topics, including corporate-level engagements, defense cooperation, and the evolving geostrategic landscape in the region. They emphasized the importance of cohesive and collaborative strategies to address emerging challenges, maintaining high operational readiness, and ensuring swift coordination in response to the current regional security dynamics.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to institutionalizing regular high-level exchanges, expanding joint operational exercises, and exploring multilateral frameworks to enhance collective responses to emerging threats. The Chinese Ambassador praised the operational excellence of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) personnel during the recent standoff on the eastern front, describing it as a testament to PAF’s high standards and commitment to national defense.
The Ambassador also acknowledged PAF’s strategic acumen in employing indigenous solutions and advanced systems to protect national interests under current leadership. He reassured China’s continued support by promising full technical assistance to enhance PAF’s aerial defense capabilities. Furthermore, he commended Pakistan’s dedication to self-reliance and noted that PAF’s investment in indigenous processes was beginning to yield positive outcomes.
Jiang Zaidong emphasized that maintaining a focus on homegrown technological development would further strengthen the country’s defense capabilities.