Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: The United States and Bahrain are highly appreciative of the professionalism of Pakistan’s Navy personnel and the active role being played by the Pakistan Navy for maritime security and stability in the region. According to a navy spokesman, the current Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, is on an official visit to Bahrain. During this visit, the Naval Chief met with the Bahrain Defence Forces Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshal Sheikh Khalifa Bin Ahmed, Commander Bahrain National Guards, Lt Gen Sheikh Mohammed Bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief of Staff Bahrain Defence Forces, Lt Gen Thiyab Bin Saqer Al Noami, and Commander Bahrain Coast Guards, Staff Brig Gen Alaa Abdullah Siyadi.

During the meetings with Bahraini dignitaries, matters of mutual interest including defence and security collaboration were discussed. The Naval Chief highlighted Pakistan’s commitment and performance in the fight against terrorism in general and the Pakistan Navy’s (PN) efforts for maintaining regional peace and security in particular. The dignitaries acknowledged warm and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Bahrain, based on strong foundations and historical ties and lauded our navy’s efforts and focused commitment in support of collaborative maritime security in the region and extending cooperation in diverse fields to Royal Bahrain Naval Force.

Later in the day, on a separate visit, the Admiral also met with Commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT). Upon his arrival at NAVCENT Headquarters, the Admiral was warmly received by the Commander, Admiral Kevin M Donegan. During the meeting, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah discussed matters of mutual interest including bilateral naval collaboration and the security environment in the Indian Ocean Region.

The Commander of US NAVCENT highly appreciated the professionalism of the Pakistan Navy personnel, stating also that the near permanent presence of Pakistan Navy units in the area of responsibility has greatly helped in shaping a secure environment for freedom of navigation in the region.