ISLAMABAD, March 31: Pakistan Navy will sign a deal with China to buy frigates and helicopters in June, Naval Chief Admiral Shahid Kareemullah said on Wednesday.

Talking to reporters after inaugurating a hospital, Admiral Kareemullah said the case for acquisition of arms from China was presently pending approval of funds by the finance ministry.

"Hopefully, it would be through in April," said the Naval Chief, adding a formal deal would be signed with China latest by June. Sources said talks for purchasing frigates and helicopters were held with Gen Cao Gangchaun during his five-day visit to Pakistan. The country may get 4-6 frigates from China, the source said.

The admiral said he would be visiting China in May to discuss further avenues of cooperation between the two navies. In reply to a question, he said Pakistan Navy was concentrating on enhancing its indigenous production capability.

He said PN ships would be proceeding to Britain this year to participate in international navy celebrations and next year to the US for the same purpose.