KARACHI: Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Amjad Khan Niazi visited the coastal areas of Turbat, Gwadar and Ormara on Thursday to review the operational preparedness and combat readiness of the Pakistan Navy units there.

Upon his arrival at PNS Siddique Naval Air Station at Turbat, the naval chief was received by Commander Pakistan Fleet Rear Admiral Naveed Ashraf. He was briefed on the operations of the Naval Air Arm followed by interaction with the troops.

Later, he departed for Gwadar where he was app­rised about ongoing operations of Maritime Security Task Force-88, Coastal Security and Harbour De­­fence Force, which have been established by Pak­istan Navy to ensure maritime security of Gwadar Port and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.

The naval chief also visited Jinnah Naval Base and PN Cadet College Ormara where he was received by Commander Coast Vice Admiral Zahid Ilyas.

Speaking on the occasion, the admiral highlighted the importance of maritime security of the entire coast, which has increased manifold in the context of the ongoing CPEC project.

The naval chief highlighted the dividends of CPEC-related projects which are intrinsically linked with the security of the maritime domain.

He stressed that responsibilities of the Pakistan Navy would continue to grow in the coming years.

He reaffirmed Navy’s resolve to safeguard the maritime boundaries and maritime interests of the nation at all cost. He also appreciated the morale and selfless devotion of troops.

Published in Dawn, November 13th, 2020