Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu recently visited Turkiye, engaging in high-level discussions with Turkish Air Force Commander General Ziya Cemal Kadıoglu, Defence Minister Yasar Guler, and Baykar Technologies CTO Selcuk Bayraktar. The visit, reported by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), highlighted the strengthening of strategic ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, focusing on defence and aerospace innovation.
During the visit, Sidhu received a Guard of Honour at the Turkish Air Force Headquarters. Discussions centered on enhancing interoperability through joint exercises, training programs, and professional exchanges. The Turkish air chief commended the Pakistan Air Force for its role in training Turkish pilots, reflecting the mutual respect and cooperation between the two forces.
In meetings with the Turkish defence minister, both parties reaffirmed their strong historical and strategic ties, exploring further collaboration in training, capacity building, and aerospace. Sidhu’s interaction with Baykar Technologies focused on advancements in aerospace innovation, unmanned aerial systems, and other emerging technologies, underscoring a shared vision for next-generation defence technologies.
This visit marks a significant step in the ongoing collaboration between Pakistan and Turkiye, with future meetings expected to further enhance their partnership in defence and technology. The commitment to joint exercises and technological advancements signals a robust and enduring relationship.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 22, 2026
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