KARACHI, Feb 20: The German frigate ‘Bremen’ will enter the Karachi port on February 23 on a courtesy visit to Pakistan and to accompany the stay of German Vice-Admiral Wolfgang E. Nolting, Chief of Naval Staff, who will arrive in Islamabad on February 21 and proceed to Karachi from Lahore on February 22.

During the official programme in Karachi, which will begin with a wreath laying ceremony at Mazar-i-Quaid, Vice-Admiral Nolting and commander of the frigate, Andreas Jedlicka, will see the Commander Karachi, Commander Pakistani Fleet, Commander Logistics and also visit Pakistan Naval units at the Pakistan Naval Dockyard.

In the evening the German vice-admiral will hold a reception onboard the German vessel.

The frigate ‘Bremen’ is currently participating in the international operation ‘Enduring Freedom’ around the Horn of Africa, interrupting its current mission for the visit of Karachi on February 23 and 24.

The 130 meters long frigate travels at a maximum speed of30 knots and a propulsive power of 38,000 kilowatts.

The vessel is equipped with radar systems for surface and air surveillance, fire control and navigation, and is primarily employed in anti-submarine and anti-surface ship to ship warfare.

The vessel is part of the 4th German Frigate Squadron. Its home port is Wilhelmshaven.

This will be the first call of a German navy ship on Karachi port during the last three years.—PPI