ISLAMABAD: Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa, Commander Ethiopian Air Force, called on Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, where both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation between the air forces of the two countries, a military statement said on Wednesday.
According to the military’s media wing, ISPR, during the meeting at Air Headquarters, Islamabad, both sides held detailed discussions on areas of professional interest.
Upon his arrival, a smartly turned-out contingent of Pakistan Air Force presented a Guard of Honour to Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa.
“During the meeting, Chief of the Air Staff reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing military partnership between the two Air Forces through joint training initiatives,” the statement said.
He assured the visiting dignitary of PAF’s steadfast support to the Ethiopian Air Force in its professional pursuits, while reiterating that Pakistan deeply cherishes its cordial relations with Ethiopia and remains firmly committed to providing comprehensive assistance in capacity building, advanced training, and operational domains.
Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa expressed heartfelt appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation during their visit.
The Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for its strong operational readiness, advanced multi-domain capabilities, and credible deterrence posture.
He noted that the Ethiopian Air Force is eager to learn from PAF’s extensive combat experience, integrated command systems, and technological innovations to enhance its own operational effectiveness.
The visiting dignitary also expressed keen interest in exploring opportunities for technology transfer in the aviation sector, with a particular focus on indigenous development and modernisation efforts.
During his visit, Lieutenant General Merdassa received detailed briefings at the National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre and the PAF Cyber Command. He commended the PAF’s technological advancements and its integration of next-generation capabilities in modern warfare.
His visit to Air Headquarters in Islamabad reflects the strong commitment of both Pakistan and Ethiopia to deepen military cooperation, promote collaboration, and strengthen bilateral defense ties.
