Deputy Defense Minister of Iraq, Secretary General Jabbar Thejel Mutlag, called on Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in his office on October 17, 2022. During the meeting, several key areas of mutual interest, enhanced bilateral relations and defense cooperation were discussed. 
Deputy Defense Minister of Iraq commended the professionalism of PAF and appreciated Pakistan's efforts in promoting regional peace.

CAS said that Pakistan and Iraq enjoy longstanding religious, cultural and historical bonds which are manifested through strong ties between both countries. The Air Chief further highlighted that the advancement in space, electronic warfare, cyber and niche technologies coupled with artificial intelligence had profoundly affected the traditional environment of national security. PAF is fully focused on the acquisition and development of these technologies through smart inductions and human resource development for cost-effective operations.
Both dignitaries also agreed to further optimize the existing ties between both air forces, particularly in training and operational domains.