A high-level defense delegation from Azerbaijan visited Air Headquarters in Islamabad to strengthen bilateral defense cooperation and deepen strategic ties between the two nations. The delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Defense Agil Gurbanov, met with Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu to discuss a wide range of issues including training, technical expertise, and future defense collaboration.

The meeting highlighted the growing partnership between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, rooted in shared values of religion, culture, and history, and emphasized a collective vision for peace, security, and stability in the region.

Commitment to Strengthening Defense Cooperation

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing joint collaboration in multiple areas. Air Chief Marshal Sidhu underscored Pakistan’s readiness to assist Azerbaijan in upgrading and modernizing its air force.

He briefed the Azerbaijani delegation on the operational readiness of the PAF, highlighting ongoing projects and future developments aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s defense capabilities. He reiterated that Pakistan stands prepared to share its experience and provide comprehensive support to Azerbaijan in improving its air defense systems.

Praise for Pakistan Air Force

Deputy Minister Agil Gurbanov praised the Pakistan Air Force for its professionalism and impressive advancements in aerospace technologies. He particularly lauded PAF’s achievements in indigenization and its success in developing modern defense solutions.

Gurbanov expressed Azerbaijan’s interest in expanding cooperation with PAF, especially in multi-domain operations and knowledge-sharing initiatives. He emphasized that the expertise and operational experience of the Pakistan Air Force offer valuable insights that could help Azerbaijan strengthen its own defense strategies.

Focus on Joint Training and Exercises

One of the key points discussed during the meeting was the importance of joint training programs and bilateral exercises. Both sides acknowledged that such initiatives not only enhance interoperability between the two forces but also contribute to professional excellence and shared learning.

The Azerbaijani delegation expressed keen interest in collaborating on specialized training modules, exchange programs, and simulation-based exercises to prepare for emerging challenges in modern warfare. Air Chief Marshal Sidhu welcomed these proposals, assuring full support for joint efforts aimed at building capacity and fostering trust between the two air forces.

Expanding Cooperation in Multi-Domain Operations

Deputy Minister Agil Gurbanov placed special emphasis on Azerbaijan’s desire to expand collaboration with PAF across multi-domain operations. He noted that Pakistan’s experience in managing complex operational environments could serve as a model for Azerbaijan’s future strategies.

Gurbanov conveyed that Azerbaijan is eager to learn PAF’s complete methodology of multi-domain warfare, ranging from planning to execution. This cooperation, he stressed, would allow Azerbaijan to strengthen its capabilities in both conventional and unconventional warfare.

Plans for Training System Transformation

During the visit, Gurbanov also highlighted Azerbaijan’s intent to revamp its entire training system, beginning from the academy level. He acknowledged PAF as a trusted partner that could guide Azerbaijan through this transformation.

The Azerbaijani delegation expressed confidence that close cooperation with PAF would play a pivotal role in modernizing their air force, improving training standards, and elevating the professional growth of their personnel. By adopting PAF’s structured methodologies, Azerbaijan aims to establish a more advanced, resilient, and future-ready defense system.

A Step Toward Regional Stability

The visit of Azerbaijan’s defense delegation to Pakistan reflects a mutual commitment to further deepening strategic ties while reinforcing aspirations for regional stability and security. Both sides expressed optimism that enhanced defense collaboration would not only strengthen their bilateral relationship but also contribute positively to broader regional peace.