The air forces of Pakistan and Ethiopia are strengthening their partnership to foster regional stability and security. This commitment was reinforced during a recent landmark meeting at Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Headquarters in Islamabad, where Lt. General Yilma Merdasa, Chief of Air Staff of the Ethiopian Air Force, met with his Pakistani counterpart, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu.
The visit, which included a formal welcome ceremony for Lt. Gen. Yilma, highlighted the growing relationship between the two nations. Their discussions focused on Ethiopia's national transformation, including the strategic modernization of its defense forces. Lt. Gen. Yilma detailed a three-part approach: developing human resources, acquiring cutting-edge technology, and building a strong military to tackle modern security challenges.
A central topic of conversation was the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which is scheduled for inauguration next month. Lt. Gen. Yilma described the GERD not just as a major infrastructure project but as a cornerstone of Ethiopia's vision for regional prosperity. He presented the dam as a symbol of national pride that will meet Ethiopia's energy needs and serve as a catalyst for regional integration, peace, and collective security in the Horn of Africa.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu praised the PAF's operational readiness and expanding capabilities. He affirmed Pakistan's strong ties with Ethiopia and reiterated the PAF's dedication to supporting the Ethiopian Air Force with capacity building, advanced training, and operational skills. Sidhu also noted that Lt. Gen. Yilma's visit reflects the increasingly strong bond between the two countries.
Pakistan expressed a keen interest in Ethiopia's transformative programs and a readiness to share its own experience and knowledge. Both leaders committed to exploring concrete collaborative initiatives, such as joint military exercises and technical assistance. To further solidify this partnership, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu indicated his intention to visit Ethiopia in the near future.
Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Jamal Baker, who was also present, noted that the meeting successfully laid the foundation for a new era of strategic cooperation between the two air forces, broadening Ethiopia's diplomatic reach. The Ethiopian delegation was also briefed on the PAF's National Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Integrated Air Operations Centre, as well as its Cyber Command.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to developing a framework that will translate their discussions into tangible actions, strengthening the partnership in pursuit of shared regional goals.
