KARACHI: Pakistan Navy announced on Thursday it has handed over command of the multi-nation Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) to Brazil, saying it had forged close partnerships with several countries while heading it.

CTF-151 is one of five task forces operated by Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), one of the largest multinational naval partnerships across the world. CTF 151’s mission is to take actions within its area of operations, to directly suppress piracy outside territorial waters of the coastal states, and to gather and share information.

Pakistan Navy said since assuming command in January 2025, it has led CTF-151 missions, built and maintained close partnerships with regional and international navies, especially the European Union Naval Forces’ Operation ATALANTA.

“Pakistan Navy has successfully relinquished command of Combined Task Force 151,” the navy’s media wing said in a statement, adding that the ceremony took place in Bahrain at the CTF-51 headquarters.

“Commodore Sohail Ahmad Azmie of Pakistan Navy handed over the Command to Rear Admiral Marcelo Lancellotti of Brazilian Navy.”

Pakistan Navy said the hallmark of the task force’s tenure under Pakistan’s leadership was the professional conduct of the focused “Operation Sea Spirit,” where the CTF-151 marshalled 13 CMF partner nations and naval assets from six countries, and eight Regional Coordination Centers.

“Expressing his thoughts on his tenure as Commander CTF 151, Cdre Sohail Ahmad Azmie thanked his staff and international partners especially Republic of Korea and Japan for their consistent commitment,” the navy said.

Lancellotti thanked Pakistan Navy and vowed to strengthen cooperation, ensure the safety of maritime commons.

The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including ambassadors from Pakistan, Japan and Brazil, as well as the deputy head of mission from Korea.