ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT): A high-level defence delegation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, led by H.E. Ambassador Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Minister of Defence, called on Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, at Air Headquarters, Islamabad. During the meeting, both dignitaries held comprehensive discussions on matters of mutual interest with particular focus on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation, institutional collaboration and capacity building.
Highlighting PAF’s ongoing transformation driven by technological innovation and indigenous capability development, the Air Chief emphasized the vast potential for collaboration in training, capacity building and professional exchanges.
Chief of the Air Staff assured the visiting dignitary of Pakistan Air Force’s unwavering commitment to extending all possible assistance in capacity building, professional training and institutional development. He reiterated that Pakistan Air Force remains ready to support the Somali Air Force in its modernization journey by sharing its operational expertise, best practices and training infrastructure. He also highlighted that the Memorandum of Understanding already signed between the two Air Forces provides a robust framework for expanding bilateral cooperation. Both sides agreed to build upon this foundation by fostering closer institutional linkages, increasing professional exchanges and translating the existing understanding into tangible collaborative initiatives for the mutual benefit of both countries.
H.E. Ambassador Ahmed Moallim Fiqi appreciated the professionalism and operational excellence of Pakistan Air Force and expressed his earnest desire in expanding bilateral defence cooperation. The visiting Minister underscored Somalia’s resolve to rebuild & modernize its Air Force and expressed keen interest in benefiting from Pakistan Air Force’s vast professional expertise. He sought Pakistan Air Force’s support in the development of institutional frameworks, formulation of operational & training policies, and enhancement of human resource capabilities through comprehensive training programmes for pilots, aircrew and technical personnel. The visiting delegation also toured the National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre at Air Headquarters where they were briefed on Pakistan Air Force’s integrated command and control architecture, operational employment of advanced ISR capabilities and network-centric operational framework. The delegation appreciated PAF’s state-of-the-art operational infrastructure and its high level of operational preparedness.
The visit of the Somali defence delegation to Air Headquarters reflects the shared resolve of Pakistan and Somalia to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and foster enduring institutional linkages, contributing to regional peace, stability and mutual prosperity.
*PAF SPOKESPERSON*
