ISLAMABAD: A Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) flotilla visited Karachi to take part in the annual bilateral Thamar Al Tayyib (TAT) 2025 exercise, the Pakistan Navy said on Saturday, with both sides aiming to enhance maritime security cooperation. 

Pakistan Navy and the RNO have been conducting the TAT series of exercises regularly since 1980. TAT-2023 was conducted in Omani waters in December 2023. 

The 12th edition of the exercise saw the participation of RNO vessels Al-Rasikh and Al-Shinas, which were part of the flotilla. Upon their arrival at the port in Karachi, the Omani vessels were warmly received in a ceremony attended by senior officials of the Pakistan Navy. 

“Exercise TAT-2025 served as an important platform for mutual learning, enhanced interoperability and professional development,” the navy said. 

It said the flotilla’s visit included meetings with senior members of the Pakistan Navy leadership, onboard receptions and visits to key naval installations and training facilities. 

Personnel from both navies engaged in professional dialogues, operational discussions and exchanged experiences across various maritime domains, the navy added. 

The Omani flotilla’s visit concluded with naval ships from both forces conducting advanced operational maneuvers and joint exercises encompassing major facets of modern maritime warfare.

“Pakistan Navy remains committed to fostering regional maritime cooperation and strengthening ties with partner navies worldwide,” the navy said.

“The Royal Navy of Oman’s participation in TAT-2025 reflects the growing defense partnership between the two friendly nations and their shared resolve to promote regional peace, stability, and maritime collaboration,” it added. 

Pakistan enjoys cordial ties with Gulf nations, including Oman. The Pakistan Army, navy and air force regularly organize and participate in international exercises to strengthen defense ties with other countries, particularly those in the Middle East.