RAWALPINDI/JAKARTA(National Times)- Pakistan Air Force Chief of Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, concluded a high-profile official visit to Indonesia, where he was conferred the Medal of Honour, the highest accolade of the Indonesian Air Force, in recognition of his efforts to strengthen bilateral air power cooperation. During his visit, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, highlighting the deep-rooted brotherhood and shared values between Pakistan and Indonesia. President Prabowo expressed strong interest in leveraging Pakistan Air Force’s advanced training systems and aerospace development infrastructure to further enhance Indonesia’s defence capabilities.The Air Chief also held separate meetings with Defence Minister Lieutenant General (r) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, and the Indonesian Air Marshal. At all venues, he was accorded a Guard of Honour, reflecting the ceremonial importance of his visit. A key discussion with the Indonesian Air Chief focused on expanding Air Force-to-Air Force cooperation, including joint training at basic and advanced levels, professional exchanges, and collaboration in emerging aerospace domains.

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The Indonesian Air Chief specifically requested Pakistan Air Force support to further operational and flying training, recognising PAF’s extensive combat experience. Air Chief Marshal Sidhu also attended a joint session with Indonesia’s Defence Minister and Chief of Defence Forces, reviewing a wide range of defence and security issues. The Indonesian leadership lauded the Pakistan Air Force’s professionalism, modernisation initiatives, and state-of-the-art facilities at the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park, highlighting opportunities for knowledge sharing and joint development.