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Belarus seeks PAF's operational expertise in strengthening Air Force capabilities

Belarus seeks PAF's operational expertise in strengthening Air Force capabilities

Express Tribune2 days ago

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Major General Andrei Yulianovich Lukyanovich, Commander of the Air Force & Air Defence of Belarus, acknowledged the Pakistan Air Force's professionalism and effectiveness in complex operational environments, expressing a strong interest in learning from its extensive operational experience, particularly in wartime operations.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), a high-level defence delegation from Belarus, led by Major General Lukyanovich, visited Air Headquarters in Islamabad on Thursday to discuss and enhance military cooperation between the two nations.
"The meeting covered a wide range of topics related to air power and military collaboration, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening long-standing bilateral ties. They agreed to maintain continuous engagement between their respective Air Forces, fostering cooperation on multiple fronts, including training, technological development, and operational capacity building," the statement read.
Upon his arrival at Air Headquarters, Islamabad, Major General Lukyanovich was presented with a formal Guard of Honour, marking the beginning of the discussions.
According to ISPR, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, highlighted the robust military relationship between the two nations and assured full support from the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in providing tactical-level training for Belarusian pilots and maintenance crews.
He underscored the importance of consolidating air force-to-air force ties by enhancing collaboration in areas such as operational training and technological advancements.
Read More: PAF among top 10 most powerful air forces globally
"The PAF is committed to extending full support for both basic and tactical-level training of pilots and maintenance crews to strengthen the Belarus Air Force," said the Chief of the Air Staff. "We aim to enhance collaboration through exchange programs, with a focus on professional development."
Major General Lukyanovich expressed deep gratitude for Pakistan's warm hospitality and praised the PAF's professionalism in complex operational environments. He emphasized Belarus's interest in learning from the PAF's operational experience, particularly in wartime operations, and suggested that structured and formal training programs be conducted for Belarusian personnel.
"I sincerely appreciate the hospitality extended to me and look forward to learning from the Pakistan Air Force's rich operational experience, especially in wartime conditions," said Lukyanovich.
Also Read: Chinese envoy praises PAF
The Belarusian commander also extended an invitation to the Chief of the Air Staff to participate in upcoming defence-related events in Belarus, further strengthening the growing bond between the two countries.

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