The graduation ceremony of 118th Combat Support Course and 39th BLPC Course was held at PAF Academy Asghar Khan in Risalpur on Friday.

The chief of Royal Air Force (RAF), Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen John Hillier was the chief guest of the ceremony, said a press release issued by Pakistan Air Force. Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman was also present at the occasion.

Chief of RAF, Sir Stephen Hillier, during his address congratulated the graduating cadets on successful completion of their training.

He referred to the historical linkages between PAF and RAF in the realms of operations and mutually beneficial training programmes.

He said that his visit was a manifestation of the shared feelings of mutual respect and close cooperation which existed between the two air forces and indeed the two nations.

He also lauded PAF's frontline role in the operation against terrorists.

Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, during his address said that both Pakistan and United Kingdom (UK) enjoyed a relationship based on mutual trust and cooperation.

He further said that Royal Air Force (RAF) had rendered a valuable contribution towards the development of PAF especially in its early years and this contribution was indeed deeply regarded by PAF.

Sohail Aman added that the relations between two countries and of course, the two air forces would continue to strengthen even further.

He reiterated that PAF was poised to face all emerging challenges and the successes in Zarb-i-Azb were a testimony of its enhanced operational efficiency.

The PAF had a firm resolve to root out the menace of terrorism from our beloved country, he further said. A total of 43 cadets including nine lady cadets were graduated at the occasion.

The chief guest awarded branch insignia and trophies to the distinction holders.

The trophy for best performance in 118th Combat Support Course was awarded to Aviation Cadet Maymoona Liaquat, while Aviation Cadet Muhammad Zada received trophy for overall best performance in 39th BLPC Course.

The ceremony was followed by a thrilling performance by “Eaglets” - the Para Motor Glider team of the Academy.

“Sherdils”, the PAF Academy Aerobatics Team also displayed an exhilarating aerial display at the occasion.

The ceremony was witnessed by high-ranking military and civil officials, diplomats, foreign dignitaries and a large number of guests of graduating cadets.