MOGADISHU, Somalia — A senior delegation from the Pakistan Air Force has returned to Islamabad after completing a five-day working visit to Somalia focused on strengthening defence cooperation and supporting the development of the Somali Air Force.
During the visit, the Pakistani delegation held high-level meetings with Somali government officials and senior leadership of the Somali Air Force. Discussions focused on rebuilding and developing the air force, strengthening its institutional and professional capabilities, and expanding bilateral military cooperation.
The visit formed part of wider efforts by Somalia and Pakistan to deepen defence ties and support the development of Somalia’s security institutions.
The two sides agreed to continue cooperation and support initiatives aimed at strengthening the capabilities and development plans of the Somali Air Force, according to officials familiar with the visit.
The delegation’s visit came as Somalia seeks to rebuild its air capabilities and strengthen the capacity of its armed forces amid ongoing security challenges.
Somalia has in recent years expanded military cooperation with international partners, with training, equipment and institutional development forming key elements of efforts to strengthen the country’s security forces.
Pakistan has maintained military relations with Somalia and has previously provided training and other forms of support to Somali security personnel.
Somali Air Force commander Brigadier General Abdiasisak Mahmoud Haji, accompanied by Joint Operations Commander General Mohamed Ali Bariise, saw off the Pakistani delegation at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu following the conclusion of the visit.
No details were immediately provided on specific agreements, equipment deliveries or financial commitments resulting from the talks.
The visit nevertheless underscored efforts by Mogadishu and Islamabad to expand military cooperation, particularly in rebuilding Somalia’s air force and developing its operational and institutional capabilities.
