ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is playing a pivotal role in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Azerbaijan Air Force through a comprehensive training program for Azeri air and ground crews at an operational base in Pakistan.
This announcement followed the visit of a high-level Azerbaijani delegation, including Deputy Defense Minister Agil Gurbanov and Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Namig Islamzade, to Air Headquarters in Islamabad on December 23, 2024. The delegation held discussions with Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, focusing on strengthening training cooperation and bilateral relations.
Commitment to Military Collaboration
During the meeting, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a robust military partnership with Azerbaijan. According to a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the ongoing training program is progressing well, with over 50 percent of objectives already achieved. The initiative is expected to conclude within a month, showcasing the PAF’s dedication to bolstering Azerbaijan’s operational readiness.
The air chief also highlighted the PAF’s strides toward operational excellence in modern warfare, emphasizing the significance of such collaborations in achieving shared goals.
Azerbaijan Praises PAF Professionalism
The Azerbaijani delegation lauded the professionalism of PAF personnel and their rapid progress in developing a self-sufficient aviation industry. Expressing satisfaction with the training provided to 70 Azeri aircrew and technicians, the delegation called for deeper Air Force-to-Air Force collaboration.
They also proposed a broader training regimen incorporating advanced technologies, including cyber and electronic warfare capabilities, to adapt to the evolving dynamics of modern military operations.
Visit to PAF Cyber Command
The delegation visited the PAF Cyber Command at Air Headquarters, where they were briefed on Pakistan’s ongoing modernization initiatives and operational advancements.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The visit underscored the mutual commitment of Pakistan and Azerbaijan to strengthening their defense ties and fostering a resilient military partnership. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to deepen relations between the two nations across various sectors.
Growing Cooperation Between Pakistan and Azerbaijan
Recent months have seen an increase in high-level engagements between the two countries. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev visited Pakistan in July 2024, where both nations pledged to boost bilateral trade to $2 billion and expand cooperation in economic projects.
Additionally, Pakistan recently waived customs and regulatory duties on imports from Azerbaijan under the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Preferential Trade Agreement, signed on July 11, 2024. This agreement aims to enhance economic collaboration by reducing tariffs on various goods, including Pakistan’s sports equipment, leather, and pharmaceuticals, as well as Azerbaijan’s oil and gas products.
This growing partnership signifies the strengthening of ties between the two nations, with defense cooperation forming a cornerstone of their relationship.
