'Role of Pakistan Navy to counter terrorism operations acknowledged'

The Chief of the Naval Staff Shahid Karimullah has said that the Pakistan Navy is the only navy forming part of Coalition Maritime Campaign Plan (CMCP) in this region. Role of Pakistan Navy to counter terrorism operations in our region has been acknowledged and appreciated and it has created lot of goodwill internationally. Our fleet units have created deterrence against nefarious elements and acted as force multipliers for coalition forces in the Arabian Sea thereby ensuring stability in the region.
This was stated, by the Chief of the Naval Staff at Islamabad International Airport, after a successful visit of UK and South Africa.
He said that the talks with British counterpart, Admiral Sir Alan West, First Sea Lord proved very fruitful. "We are looking into options for acquiring Type 23 Frigates from UK and negotiations for purchase will commence, once inspection and evaluation of these ships is done". Admiral Karimullah during the meeting also discussed various training aspects. He also visited British Fleet Units and held meetings with senior naval officers including General Robert Fry, CBE, Dy Chief of the Defence Staff.
During his visit of South Africa, Chief of the Naval Staff held discussions with his counterpart, primarily focused on sale of South African military hardware, specially Data Link, EW and Command and Control systems, to Pakistan Navy. It was agreed to enhance co-operation in the training areas and prospect of technical collaboration for the benefit of both.
During the visit the Naval Chief called on Secretary of Defence, Masilela & Deputy Minister of Defence Lekota and visited department of Denel Aerospace Systems and Man Serro Stall, where production & marketing of Type-209 submarine is taking place.
The Naval Chief during the tour also visited various fleet units and training establishments of South African Navy.
Earlier, on his arrival at Islamabad International Airport, the Naval Chief was received by Vice Admiral M Afzal Tahir, Megon Govender Charge-d' Af-faires South Africa, and Senior naval officers.-PR