Karachi: Two Corvettes PMSS HINGOL and BASOL were inducted to Pakistan Maritime Security Agency on Tuesday (PMSA) at the Pakistan Navy’s Jinnah Naval Base in Ormara, Balochistan.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif was the chief guest at the ceremony.
The minister witnessed operational arrangements as well as various socio-economic empowerment initiatives undertaken by the Pakistan Navy at Ormara for the uplift of the local communities. He showed his satisfaction over operational preparedness of the Pakistan Navy and effectiveness in ensuring security in the maritime arena.
He emphasised the vital role of the Navy and especially accorded high priority to ensuring the safety and security of maritime components of the CPEC project. He said the success of CPEC and Gwadar Port project depends on a secure maritime environment in the Indian Ocean region, and in particular the Arabian Sea. He also interacted with the officers and lauded their commitment and perseverance for the service to the nation.
Later, he visited Cadet College Ormara and Bahria Model College to witness various activities there and interacted with the cadets and students. The minister also visited the Navy hospital, PNS Darmaan Jah, where he was briefed on medical facilities and services being provided to the locals as well as the medical camps frequently organised in remote coastal areas of Balochistan.
Asif acknowledged these efforts and praised Pakistan Navy for effectively contributing to a noble cause and providing a great service to the coastal populace.
Earlier, on arrival, he was received by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah.
The ceremony was also attended by civil and military officials. Chinese-origin corvettes are equipped with the state-of-the-art equipment and will augment protection of exclusive economic zone and law enforcement in the maritime arena.
