ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China launched a joint naval exercise in Karachi, the Pakistan Navy said on Wednesday, as a Chinese warship arrived at port to take part in drills that have been held periodically to enhance maritime coordination between the two countries.
The exercise is part of a broader strategic cooperation between them that spans defense, economic and diplomatic spheres.
The two countries have worked closely together on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), featuring major infrastructure projects such as the development of Gwadar port, alongside deep defense collaboration ranging from joint fighter jet development to military procurements from Beijing.
“The SEA GUARDIAN exercise aims to further strengthen bilateral relations through the mutual exchange of maritime expertise and enhanced interoperability between the two friendly navies, reflecting their shared commitment to regional peace,” the statement said.
“The exercise will feature a range of harbor and sea-phase activities, including subject matter expert engagements, a young officers’ seminar on contemporary topics, gunnery firings, coordinated patrols, and other maritime security operations,” it added.
The exercise started on Wednesday after the Chinese naval vessel arrived in Karachi and was being escorted into port by Pakistan Navy ships in a ceremonial reception.
It will continue till Apr. 2, according to the statement.
Pakistan and China have steadily expanded maritime cooperation in recent years, with such exercises forming the security component of their broader partnership, while Islamabad also conducts similar naval drills periodically with other regional and international partners.
The Pakistan Navy said the exercise reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to regional stability and is expected to further deepen their strategic partnership while contributing to maritime security in the region.
