https://arab.news/vxn55
- Pakistan has been actively working to bolster its naval capabilities through induction of advanced warships
- Both sides discussed greater interaction between their armed forces through exercises, exchange programs
ISLAMABAD: Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf took a detailed tour of a shipyard during his official visit to the Netherlands, where he was briefed on the maintenance and construction of various ships, according to a statement released by the Naval Headquarters in Islamabad on Saturday.
Pakistan has been actively working to bolster its naval capabilities through the induction of advanced warships. Recently, it inducted PNS Babur and PNS Hunain, two state-of-the-art vessels, into its fleet.
These warships are part of a broader effort to enhance maritime security and operational readiness. PNS Babur, constructed in Turkiye, and PNS Hunain, an offshore patrol vessel from Romania, are equipped with cutting-edge technology to address both surface and air threats.
This move underscores Pakistan’s focus on modernizing its navy to protect its maritime interests
“Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf called on Military and Naval Leadership of the Netherlands during an official visit [to that country],” the official statement informed, adding that professional matters of mutual interest, including bilateral defense collaboration, came under discussion.
It said the naval chief underscored the importance of enhancing interactions between the armed forces of both countries through exercises and training exchange program.
“Later on, the Naval Chief visited DAMEN Shipyard of Royal Netherlands Navy and Zeven De Provincién Class Frigate,” the statement continued. “During his visits CNS was given a detailed briefing on ships’ maintenance and construction activities.”
Admiral Ashraf also visited Royal Netherlands Navy Headquarters and called on Commander Royal Netherlands Navy, Vice Admiral René Tas.
During the meeting, matters of defense ties and mutual bilateral naval collaboration and regional maritime security were discussed.
The naval chief highlighted the contribution of Pakistan Navy toward regional maritime peace and stability through its initiative of Regional Maritime Security Patrols (RMSP) and participation in Combined Maritime Force.
The statement said his visit to the Netherlands was expected to further augment and expand defense ties between the two countries.