KARACHI: Vice Admiral and Commander Pakistan Fleet Syed Arifullah Hussaini hailed the time-tested friendship between Pakistan and China as well as growing economic and military cooperation between the two countries. He made these comments at a joint press briefing along with Rear Admiral Yu Manjian, Commander Chinese Naval Task Group at Fleet Headquarters Karachi. The...

He made these comments at a joint press briefing along with Rear Admiral Yu Manjian, Commander Chinese Naval Task Group at Fleet Headquarters Karachi.

The Chinese Naval Task Group comprising PLA(N) ships QINGHAIHU, LIUZHOU and SANYA are on a goodwill visit to Karachi to participate in 3rd Pakistan Navy and PLA(Navy) bilateral exercise. PLA (Navy) ships were extended warm welcome on their arrival in the city.

Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, Chief of the Naval Staff, also visited the PLA(N) ships yesterday.

"Both the navies enjoy an “all weather” relationship which has a long history of Joint Maritime Collaboration including regular exchange visits of senior naval leadership, mutual construction of naval ships and submarines, PLA(N)’s regular participation in AMAN exercise, annual joint SOF exercise and conduct of bilateral exercise," Vice Admiral Hussaini said.

Speaking on this occasion, the Chinese Admiral thanked Pakistan Navy for warm welcome and traditional hospitality.

He further reiterated that the exercise is a reflection of the strong ties between the two navies and manifestation of converging strategic interests of the two countries which will go a long way in promoting maritime security and stability in the region.

Recently, two PN ships also visited SHANGHAI from 28 Dec 2015 to 3 Jan 2016 to participate in 2nd bilateral exercise of the series which is a testimony of growing mutual desire to improve the level of coordination, a statement by Pakistan Navy said.

Pakistan Navy and PLA(N) have been interacting since long, however, the recent series of naval exercise involving ships, aircraft and special forces are unique in the entire spectrum of multi-faceted operation.

The exercises are aimed at strengthening mutual collaboration, enhance interoperability and tactical proficiency. The ongoing 3rd Pakistan Navy and PLA(N) bilateral exercise comprises an elaborate harbour and sea phase.

The sea phase of the exercise covered entire spectrum of maritime and naval operations involving ships, helicopters, maritime patrol aircraft, fighter aircraft and special forces. - SAMAA