Ambassador of the People's Republic of China, H. E. Mr. Jiang Zaidong, called on Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Pakistan Air Force (PAF), Air Chief Marshal (ACM), Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, in his office on January 31, 2024. The meeting discussed matters pertaining to the evolving geo-strategic environment and regional developments. 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. CAS shared the broad contours of PAF's modernization drive to transform the PAF into a next generation Air Force through the induction of niche technologies with a particular focus on indigenization and revamping of training. Highlighting the significance of the longstanding strategic partnership between the two countries, the Air Chief emphasized that PAF leadership wishes to deepen the existing aviation cooperation and exchanges with China in human resources and technology to jointly address shared security challenges. He said, "Pakistan values its strong diplomatic, economic, defense 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 and lauded the steadfast determination of PAF leadership to ensure a balance of power in the region. Both dignitaries emphasized the need for enhanced Air Force-to-Air Force collaboration, particularly on cutting-edge niche technologies in the 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 the Air Chief is a testament to the strong commitment of both nations to further consolidate their strategic partnership through continued dialogue and military collaboration.
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