Watch: Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder jets give stunning aerial salute to UAE President
Six-ship formation honours Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan over Islamabad skies
ISLAMABAD – In a grand display of hospitality and military precision, a six-member squadron of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) JF-17 Thunder Block III aircraft provided an aerial salute and formal escort to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, as he entered Pakistani airspace on Friday.
The formation, led by the squadron commander, conveyed warm greetings on behalf of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the people of Pakistan.
A six-member squadron of Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder Block III aircraft extended a grand aerial salute to President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan @PakPMO @CMShehbaz @MohamedBinZayed@PakinUAE_ @ForeignOfficePk @PAFFalconsPK @DGPR_PAF… pic.twitter.com/WmhdAJBloD
— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) December 26, 2025
The JF-17 Thunder Block III, Pakistan’s latest multi-role fighter, demonstrated the air force’s advanced operational capabilities during the high-profile flypast. The squadron’s precision and coordination showed both the PAF’s professionalism and the symbolic significance of the visit, reflecting the deep-rooted brotherly ties between Pakistan and the UAE.
UAE President’s visit to Pakistan
After landing at Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi, President Sheikh Mohamed met PM Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad to discuss strengthening UAE-Pakistan cooperation. Discussions centred on economic collaboration, investment opportunities, energy projects, and technological partnerships, highlighting the shared vision for development and prosperity. Both leaders emphasised translating these objectives into practical initiatives to ensure long-term benefits for the two nations.
The talks also touched upon regional and global issues of mutual concern, with both sides underlining the importance of supporting peace, security, and stability. The UAE reiterated its commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as means to resolve disputes, while Pakistan highlighted its role as a United Nations Security Council member in advancing international peace efforts.
President Sheikh Mohamed expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and highlighted the enduring cultural and people-to-people ties linking the UAE and Pakistan. PM Shehbaz Sharif praised UAE development initiatives and reaffirmed the commitment to enhancing bilateral ties across key sectors.