ISLAMABAD: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf on Friday expressed satisfaction with the operational readiness of Pakistan’s fleet, highlighting its critical role in safeguarding strategic maritime zones, including Gwadar Port developed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to boost trade and regional connectivity.
The Gwadar Port, a vital link in Pakistan’s efforts to enhance regional trade, has been at the center of the country’s push to convince landlocked Central Asian states to utilize its ports for international trade via sea lanes.
The navy has also been instrumental in fostering the development of Pakistan’s blue water economy, ensuring maritime security and facilitating economic growth.
“Chief of the Naval Staff expressed complete satisfaction and confidence in the operational readiness of Pakistan Navy Fleet,” the navy said in a statement after holding fleet annual efficiency competition parade. “He lauded the dedication and professionalism of officers and sailors in safely and efficiently achieving the operational objectives and milestones for the year 2024.”
In this handout photo, taken and released by Pakistan Navy on January 3, 2025, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf speaks at the Fleet Efficiency Competition Parade 2024 at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard in Karachi. (Photo courtesy: Pakistan Navy)
“He highlighted Pakistan Navy’s efforts to ensure the security of strategic maritime zones, particularly Gwadar Port and maritime projects under CPEC,” it added.
The parade was held at the dockyard in Karachi. The naval chief attended the event as the chief guest and elaborated on the evolving maritime security challenges in the region.
In this handout photo, taken and released by Pakistan Navy on January 3, 2025, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf reviews the guard at the Fleet Efficiency Competition Parade 2024 at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard in Karachi. (Photo courtesy: Pakistan Navy)
He also stressed the need for the navy to remain vigilant and prepared to counter any threats to Pakistan’s maritime boundaries.
Earlier, Commander Pakistan Fleet Rear Admiral Abdul Munib, in his welcome address, highlighted the fleet’s operational achievements over the past year.
Awards and trophies were presented to the best-performing squadrons and units during the ceremony, recognizing their exemplary contributions to the navy’s operational success in 2024.
