Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: Two Corvettes PMSS HINGOL and BASOL were inducted in Pakistan Maritime Security Agency on Tuesday (PMSA) at the Pakistan Navy’s Jinnah Naval Base Ormara, Balochistan.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif was the chief guest at the ceremony.

The minister witnessed operational arrangements as well as various socio-economic empowerment initiatives undertaken by Pakistan Navy at Ormara for the uplift of locals. He showed his satisfaction over the operational preparedness of Pakistan Navy and effectiveness in ensuring security in the maritime arena.

He emphasised on the vital role of PN, especially high priority accorded to ensure safety and security of maritime components of CPEC project. He said the success of CPEC and Gwadar Port project depends on the secure maritime environment in the Indian Ocean region and in particular the Arabian Sea. He also interacted with the officers and lauded their commitment and perseverance to the service to the nation.

Later, he visited Cadet College Ormara and Bahria Model College to witness activities and interact with the cadets and students. The minister also visited PN hospital, PNS Darmaan Jah, where he was briefed about medical facilities and services being provided to the locals as well as the medical camps frequently organised in remote coastal areas of Balochistan.

Asif acknowledged the efforts and praised Pakistan Navy for effectively contributing to the noble cause and providing the great service to the coastal populace.

Earlier, on arrival, he was received by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah.

The ceremony was also attended by civil and military officials. Chinese-origin corvettes are equipped with the state-of-the-art equipment and will augment protection of exclusive economic zone and law enforcement in the maritime arena.