A high-level Iraqi delegation led by General Secretary, Ministry of Defense Iraq, Lieutenant General Ahmed Dawood Salman called on Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Pakistan Air Force (PAF), Air Chief Marshal (ACM), Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu in his office on August 20, 2024. The meeting underscored several key areas of mutual interest with a special focus on bilateral training and exploring expanded collaboration between both countries, especially in the aviation sector.

During the meeting, the CAS outlined the framework of PAF's comprehensive modernization strategy, which involved procuring technological equipment from allied countries, upgrading critical infrastructure, restructuring training, and indigenization efforts to address contemporary air warfare challenges. He reiterated PAF's unwavering support in providing capacity-building assistance to the Iraqi Air Force in upgrading its human resources, maintenance parameters, and operational training. In this regard, CAS emphasized the tangible support extended by PAF to the Iraqi Air Force, including the recent delivery of the Super Mushshak trainer aircraft and its support equipment within the stipulated timeframe. He highlighted that the disbursement of the payment of USD 20 million to Pakistan by Iraq has further bolstered the national exchequer. The CAS also commended the strong religious, cultural, and historical ties between Pakistan and Iraq, which manifested through the strong ties between the Air Forces of both countries.
Lieutenant General Ahmed Dawood Salman commended the professionalism of PAF and lauded its innovative strides and indigenization efforts under the current leadership. He also appreciated Pakistan's efforts to promote regional peace and stability. Both sides sought to optimize the existing military ties between the two countries further, focusing on advanced tactical training, emerging technologies, and strengthening operational competencies. This includes training extended by PAF to personnel of the Iraqi Air Force in the domains of pilot training, air defense and cyber technology, which is expected to commence soon at various institutes of the PAF. The delegation admired PAF's indigenization initiatives and expressed a strong interest in acquiring JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, an additional 12 Super Mushak Trainer aircraft, and maintenance and lifecycle support from PAF, emphasizing the potential for enhanced collaboration.
Earlier, the Iraqi delegation visited the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP), where they were briefed on the cutting-edge projects and technological initiatives the PAF spearheaded. The General Secretary of the Ministry of Defense Iraq expressed his deep appreciation for the Research and Development (R&D) being carried out at the NASTP, making it a hub for innovation and technological advancement. 
The Iraqi delegation's visit to Pakistan signifies a resolute commitment from both nations to reinforce their existing partnership by fostering collaboration and promoting robust relations between their respective Air Forces.