The exercise, ninth in the series of bilateral air manoeuvres by the two friendly air forces, saw the participation of latest aircraft and support elements from the People Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and PAF. It is conducted each year in both countries on an alternate basis.

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Mujahid Anwar Khan attended the closing ceremony as a chief guest alongside Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong, who attended as a guest of honour.

“The existing global security scenario coupled with the evolving dynamics of air warfare called for enhanced partnership between Pakistan and China as indeed between our armed forces,” the air chief said while addressing the participants.

It is heartening that with every passing year, Pakistan-China friendship became stronger and stronger, the air chief said, adding that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a game-changer and manifestation of Islamabad and Biejing's common objectives and destiny.

The ACM also expressed his gratitude towards Commander People's Liberation Army Air Force General Ding Laihang, for sending a large contingent to participate in the exercise despite Covid-19 pandemic.

Expressing his views on the occasion, Ambassador Rong said that the international and regional strategic situation was undergoing profound changes with growing complexity in the security environment.

Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan. Chief of the Air Staff Pakistan Air Force. and Nong Rong, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan along with high ranking officers from both air forces cutting the cake at the culmination of Pak-China International Air Exercise Shaheen-IX. PHOTO: PAF

“This calls for the collaboration of our two countries and two armed forces in maintaining peace and stability and to cope with various challenges,” the press release stated quoting the Chinese ambassador.

The PAF regularly participates in similar operational exercises, both in-country and abroad, to remain abreast of challenges and response strategies in the contemporary threat environment, the statement maintained.

It added that the 10th round of the Shaheen exercise is scheduled to take place in China next year.