KARACHI: In a formal change of command ceremony held at HQ Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), Bahrain, on Thursday, Pakistan Navy assumed command of the multinational Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) for the ninth time. Commodore Abdul Munib took over the command from Rear Admiral (LH) Nejat Inanir of the Turkish Navy.

According to information received here, while addressing the audience the incoming commander of CTF-151, Commodore Abdul Munib, said his team was fully geared to shoulder this significant responsibility. He also lauded the outgoing commander, Rear Admiral (LH) Nejat Inanir of the Turkish Navy, and his team for their dedicated efforts to achieve set objectives during the tenure of command.

Commodore Abdul Munib reaffirmed his resolve to continue with the same spirit and further highlighted the strong relationship between Pakistan Navy and the Coalition Maritime Forces in pursuit of their common objective for a secure maritime order in the region.

CTF-151 is one of the three Combined Task Forces operating under Commander of CMF. Its mission is to suppress piracy in the Horn of Africa, Gulf of Aden and adjoining ocean space under CMF. Prior to assuming the command, Pakistan Navy had the distinction of commanding CTF-151 on eight occasions, which is a manifestation of the trust for the navy among its coalition partners.

The ceremony was attended by Ambassador of Pakistan Afzaal Mahmood, Ambassador of Turkey Kemal Demirciler, Vice Admiral Samuel J. Paparo of US Navy, Commander Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), Rear Admiral Mohammad Yousif Al Asam, Commander Royal Bahrain Naval Force and other senior diplomats and naval officers.

Published in Dawn, December 11th, 2020