Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday lauded the role played by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in counter-terrorism operations in the country and said the nation was proud of their professional capabilities.

In an interaction with the PAF officials including officers and staff at PAF Airbase Mushaf in Sargodha, the prime minister said “PAF has always played a vital role in the country's defence”.

Nawaz also mentioned the contribution of PAF in operation Zarb-i-Azb.

“The falcons of Pakistan Air Force are our pride,” he told the PAF officials.

He congratulated the troops on the successful culmination of 'Highmark' exercises, conducted every four years to enhance the operational preparedness of the PAF.

The prime minister said PAF played a significant role in the country's defence by working in association with army and navy.

Nawaz was given a comprehensive briefing at the command and control centre about High Mark's successful culmination and its achieved objectives.

Earlier, on his arrival, the prime minister was received by Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman and senior officers of the PAF. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accompanied the prime minister.

Nawaz was presented a guard of honour and salute by a smartly turned out contingent of PAF.

The premier also reviewed the parade and witnessed the fly-past of a formation of the F-16 fighter jets belonging to Squadron 9 and the SAAB aircraft.