KARACHI, Jan 31: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Abdul Aziz Mirza has said that Pakistan Navy is maintaining a highest degree of vigilance and readiness and will respond with full force to meet any misadventure by the adversary.

He was addressing officers and sailors of Pakistan Navy during his day with PN Fleet units on the high seas.

The Chief of the Naval Staff further said: “We are a peace-loving nation and have never resorted to aggression but if anyone tried to challenge our sovereignty and independence, Pakistan Navy officers and sailors will defend the motherland at all costs”.

The Naval Chief said that the Pakistan Navy is not only responsible for safeguarding the sea frontiers of the country, but it also plays a leading role in the economic growth of the country by keeping sea lanes of communication open to ensure safe and sound trade.

Admiral Mirza witnessed manoeuvres of Pakistan Navy destroyers, submarines and aircraft and reviewed their operational preparedness.

He met the officers and sailors onboard and appreciated the morale and determination with which they were performing their duties in the prevailing critical regional situation.

Earlier, he visited Air-Arm of Navy where he was briefed about the combat readiness of PN aircraft. Chief of the Naval Staff was accompanied by Real Admiral Shahid Karimullah, Commander Pakistan, Fleet, and other senior Naval Officers during his visit.—PPI