ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy and Chinese Navy began sixth bilateral exercise Sea Guardians 2020 in Karachi on Monday.
Deputy Commander of Chinese Navy’s Southern Theater Command was the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, Commander Pakistan fleet Vice Admiral Asif Khaliq said Exercise Sea Guardians will usher into a new era of cooperation between navies of the two countries.
Also Read: Pakistan Navy successfully test-fires anti-ship missiles
According to Pakistan Navy spokesperson, besides Pakistan Navy’s assets, Chinese naval assets including warships, fleet tanker and marine forces will take part in the exercise.
The spokesperson said Exercise Sea Guardians 2020 is aimed at exchanging professional experiences against maritime threats and naval cooperation between the two countries.
He said the bilateral exercise will also play a role in promotion of safe and stable maritime environment in the region.
Pakistan Navy flotilla comprising Pakistan Navy Ships ‘Rahnaward’, ‘Gwadar’ and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) Ship ‘Dasht’ visited Muscat, Oman as part of overseas deployment, Director General Public Relations – Navy said on Jan 5.
Upon arrival at Muscat port, visiting Pakistan Navy and PMSA Ships were extended warm welcome by Royal Navy of Oman. During stay at the port, Mission Commander along with Commanding Officers of visiting ships called on Director General Operations & Plans at Headquarters of the Chief of Staff of Sultan’s Armed Forces (COSSAF) and Commanding Officer Said Bin Sultan Naval Base, Wudam.
During interactions, the Mission Commander conveyed sincere regards from Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi for the people of Oman in general and the Royal Navy of Oman in particular. Both the sides displayed commitment and desire to further augment and expand naval collaborations in various domains. Mission Commander also highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in fight against terrorism and Pakistan Navy’s contribution towards maritime security and safety of global commons.
