ISLAMABAD, Apr 7 (APP) Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Monday welcomed the inclusion of a new Chinese frigate into the fleet of the Pakistan Navy. He said that this is yet another milestone in the glorious history of Pakistan-China friendship and strategic partnership.

Appreciating the close collaboration of Pakistan Navy with the Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, Shanghai in manufacturing the first F-22 type frigate, the Prime Minister said that the induction of this frigate would auger well for the maritime defence of the country. He went on to say that it is a momentous occasion towards the modernization of Pakistan Navy and in strengthening its capabilities to monitor its territorial waters.

It may be mentioned that the first F-22 type Frigate given to Pakistan will be equipped with state of the art weapon and sensor systems and will carry Z9EC helicopters which are also being manufactured in China. The project includes complete transfer of technology for the construction of fourth ship of the frigate at Karachi shipyard.

The launch ceremony was attended by a high-ranking delegation from Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Ambassador Salman Bashir and officials from the Chinese ministry of Industry as well as the PLA Navy.