ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi addressed the first Saudi International Maritime Forum (SIM Forum – 2019) in Riyadh on Monday, in a visit aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation.
“Saudi International Maritime Forum 2019 was the first multinational naval event organized by Saudi Royal Naval Forces,” the Pakistan Navy said in a statement, adding that the forum included a series of lectures and panel discussions featuring speakers from various think tanks and international naval forces.
The three-day event attended by navy chiefs from 13 countries covered regional maritime security concepts, global threats and opportunities, and future challenges in the maritime industry. Latest technologies and equipment were presented during an accompanying exhibition.
Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi attends the first Saudi International Maritime Forum (SIM Forum – 2019) in Riyadh on Monday. (Photo courtesy of Pakistan Navy)
At the forum, Pakistan’s navy chief met with Royal Saudi Naval Forces Commander Vice Admiral Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily and other heads of foreign navies.
“During the meetings with the foreign dignitaries, matters of mutual interest and bilateral naval collaboration were discussed,” the Pakistan Navy statement read, adding that Admiral Abbasi “highlighted Pakistan’s commitment in the fight against terrorism,” which included the navy’s peace initiatives in support of maritime security in the region.
On June 29, the commander of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces was guest of honor at the graduation ceremony and parade in Karachi held for 175 graduates of the Pakistan Naval Academy’s 111th course, among whom were three Saudi officers.
While addressing the graduates, Al-Ghofaily highlighted the close collaboration between the armed forces of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, and said there was a common desire in both nations for regional peace and stability.
