KARACHI, Pakistan: The Sixth Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN 2019 began in Karachi on Friday with the slogan “Together for Peace”, aimed at providing a forum for understanding of each other’s maritime concepts, operational cultures and identifying ways & means to combat common threats at sea.
Over 45 countries are participating in the five-day Naval Exercise AMAN 2019 with ships and observers, which will last till February 12, Pakistan’s Dispatch News Desk (DND) News Agency reported.
The exercise has two major phases: harbour and sea phases. Harbour activities would include seminars, discussions and demonstrations.
In tandem, three days International Maritime Conference will also be held on the topic “Global geopolitics in transition; Rethinking maritime dynamics in the Indian Ocean region”.
Meanwhile, the march-past was held by contingents of Pakistan Navy after the flag hoisting ceremony in Karachi, wherein balloons and pigeons were released as a symbol of harmony and love.
The Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi addressed the inauguration ceremony, in which ambassadors and delegates of various countries were also present.
The Vice Admiral said that maritime security is pivotal for national security and protection of maritime routes is also necessary for the economy. He said that Pakistan Navy is fully capable to protect its sea routes.
Earlier briefing the media at Pakistan Navy Fleet Headquarters, the Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi said that the Naval Exercise AMAN 2019 would help foster friendships amongst participating countries, which will lead to develop and practice common tactics, procedures and mechanics to deal with the maritime threats that affect us all today.
The Vice Admiral said that overall, the exercise AMAN is about bridging gaps and making it possible to operate together in pursuance of shared objectives.
