ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo have agreed to explore deeper air force cooperation, with a focus on training, professional exchanges and indigenous defence capabilities, the Pakistan Air Force said on Friday.
A high-level Congolese defence delegation led by Lt Gen Banza Mwilambwe Jules, Chief of Defence Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, met Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, at Air Headquarters in Islamabad.
According to a PAF statement, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security and opportunities to expand bilateral defence cooperation.
The Air Chief highlighted the longstanding relations between Pakistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo and said there was scope to broaden cooperation between the armed forces, particularly through increased interaction, training and exchange of expertise.
He also briefed the visiting delegation on the Pakistan Air Force’s indigenous capabilities and ongoing efforts toward greater self-reliance.
Lt Gen Jules praised the professionalism, operational preparedness and training standards of the PAF and expressed interest in Pakistan’s experience in developing indigenous defence capabilities.
The visiting defence chief also spoke about efforts to rebuild and modernise the Democratic Republic of Congo’s air force and expressed interest in benefiting from the PAF’s professional expertise.
The PAF said the visit reflected the two countries’ intention to strengthen institutional defence ties and expand long-term cooperation.
The meeting came as the Congolese defence delegation held a series of engagements with Pakistan’s military leadership during its visit to the country.
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