Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Naval Staff for the Pakistan Navy, highlighted that the Chinese PLA Navy has been a consistent participant in past AMAN exercises and is expected to join AMAN-25. He looks forward to hosting PLA Navy leaders during the inaugural AMAN Dialogue, which will accompany the AMAN-25 multinational exercise in February in Karachi. In an interview with Global Times, Ashraf stated that AMAN’s primary objective is to enhance regional cooperation, foster interoperability, and strengthen collective resolve against maritime terrorism and crime.
The Pakistan Navy is fully prepared to host AMAN-25 with increased participation from friendly nations. The 2023 edition saw representation from 50 countries, and Ashraf anticipates this year’s event will also be significant. The AMAN Dialogue will address maritime security, cooperation, and the blue economy. Regular PLA Navy participation in AMAN exercises underscores the shared commitment of China and Pakistan to regional peace and security.
China’s involvement in AMAN has bolstered maritime cooperation, showcasing mutual efforts to enhance maritime security. In addition to AMAN, the China-Pakistan naval partnership includes the Sea Guardian joint exercises, which have strengthened interoperability. The latest iteration, Sea Guardian-3, involved Pakistan Navy units and PLA Navy assets in anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine drills, contributing to deeper collaboration.
Another key facet of their cooperation is the delivery of four Type 054A/P frigates from China to Pakistan, equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and sensors. These frigates enhance Pakistan Navy’s operational flexibility and are integral to its fleet. Additionally, the joint construction of Hangor-class submarines is progressing as planned. These submarines, with advanced weaponry and air-independent propulsion systems, will significantly enhance Pakistan’s naval capabilities.
Admiral Ashraf emphasized the historical and strategic ties between the Pakistan and Chinese navies, which encompass platform acquisitions, joint exercises, technical collaborations, and training exchanges. Future cooperation could expand into areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, cyber security, and space technology.
Reflecting on his visit to China in April 2024, Ashraf praised the professionalism of the PLA Navy leadership and expressed confidence in their growing capabilities. He noted that Pakistan Navy remains combat-ready and balanced, capable of addressing diverse maritime challenges. Despite India’s naval modernization, Ashraf stressed that Pakistan is not pursuing an arms race but maintains sufficient capacity to fulfill its missions effectively.
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