PAF Chief’s Landmark Visit to the United States

In a significant step towards reinforcing defence collaboration between Pakistan and the United States, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, the Chief of the Air Staff, has concluded a momentous official visit to the United States. This marks the first visit by a current Pakistan Air Force (PAF) chief in more than ten years.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) communicated that the Air Chief engaged in strategic discussions with prominent figures in the US political and military echelons, including key officials at the Pentagon and Capitol Hill.

According to the ISPR, these interactions played a crucial role in revitalizing institutional connections, improving operational compatibility, and reaffirming a joint dedication to maintaining peace at both regional and global levels.

Meetings at the Pentagon

During his time at the Pentagon, Air Chief Sidhu had discussions with Kelli L Seybolt, the Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs, and General David W Allvin, the Chief of Staff of the US Air Force.

Focus Areas
  • Enhancing bilateral military cooperation
  • Promoting joint training programs
  • Expanding technological exchanges

He emphasized Pakistan’s enduring commitment to the military relationship between the US and Pakistan, advocating for consistent high-level engagements to advance collaborative initiatives.

Discussions at the State Department

The PAF chief also engaged with Brown L Stanley from the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs and Eric Meyer from the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs at the State Department.

Key Discussion Points
  • Pakistan’s ongoing counterterrorism initiatives
  • The changing security landscape in South and Central Asia
  • Islamabad’s vision for fostering regional peace
Capitol Hill Engagements

Air Chief Sidhu conducted several important meetings on Capitol Hill with US legislators, including Mike Turner, Rich McCormick, and Bill Huizenga.

These discussions offered a valuable chance to express Pakistan’s strategic perspectives, reiterate the nation’s commitment to peace, and promote stronger bilateral defence cooperation.

The visit signifies a crucial milestone in Pakistan-US relations, establishing a foundation for greater cooperation in defence, joint exercises, and institutional dialogue between the PAF and the USAF.