Islamabad: Commander Ethiopian Air Force, Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa, met with Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, in Islamabad today. Upon his arrival, Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa was greeted with a Guard of Honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Air Force.
According to Radio Pakistan, during their meeting, the two leaders engaged in detailed discussions on areas of professional interest, expressing a mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation between their respective air forces. Air Chief Marshal Sidhu emphasized the importance of enhancing military partnerships through joint training initiatives, assuring the Ethiopian dignitary of Pakistan Air Force's unwavering support in Ethiopia's professional endeavors. He highlighted Pakistan's dedication to providing comprehensive assistance in capacity building, advanced training, and operational domains, while cherishing the cordial relations between the two nations.
Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He praised the Pakistan Air Force's operational readiness, its evolving multi-domain capabilities, and its credible deterrence posture. The Ethiopian Air Force Commander expressed a keen interest in leveraging PAF's rich combat experience, integrated command systems, and technological innovations to enhance their own operational capabilities.
The Ethiopian Air Chief also showed interest in exploring technology transfer opportunities within the aviation sector, specifically in indigenous development and modernization initiatives. During his visit, Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa received comprehensive briefings at the National ISR and Integrated Air Operations Centre and PAF Cyber Command, where he acknowledged PAF's technological advancements and integration of cutting-edge capabilities in modern warfare.
The visit of Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa to Air Headquarters, Islamabad, underscores the strong commitment of both countries to reinforce military partnerships, foster collaboration, and promote robust relations between their air forces.