KARACHI: About 45 countries will participate in the upcoming multinational ‘Aman 2021’ maritime exercise to be hosted by the Pakistan Navy.
Commander Pakistan fleet Rear Admiral Naveed Ashraf released the brief of the multinational Naval Exercise, conducted at Pakistan Navy Fleet Headquarters.
He said this exercise will provide a common platform for sharing information, mutual understanding and highlighting common naval interests. He added the Pakistan Navy has been conducting the Aman exercise since 2007.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf pointed out the Aman exercise reflects commitment against multilateral threats and promotion of regional harmony and mutual cooperation. He said joint maritime security is of paramount importance to ensure peace and stability in the region.
He said the exercise is a reflection that nations can play a constructive role in building new ties, establishing innovative relationships and strengthening existing ones.
“Pakistan has remained steadfast in fighting the forces of terror and tyranny with countless sacrifices and losses,” Admiral Naveed Ashraf said, adding the on-going COVID-19 pandemic has added yet another dimension to the already complex security situation.
He said Pakistan Navy truly believes in the centuries-old dictum that ‘Sea unites while Land divides’. He added that Pakistan considers that maritime security is not just important for itself but for all other countries whose prosperity and progress are strongly bonded with the seas.
He stressed that no country could single-handedly tackle the diverse threats that exist or the new ones that emanate daily. Thus Collaborative Maritime Security has become the Scarlet Thread to ensure peace and stability in the region.
The 7th edition of the exercise is currently being conducted in February in which around 45 countries are participating with surface and air assets, Special Operation Forces/ Marine teams, and observers/ senior officers.
The exercise has two major phases: harbour and sea phase. Harbour activities would include seminars, discussions, demonstrations, and international get-togethers.
The sea phase would have tactical maneuvers on anti-piracy, counterterrorism, gunnery firing, and search and rescue. The hallmark of the sea phase and exercise, AMAN – 21, would be International Fleet Review, witnessed by national and foreign dignitaries.
