KARACHI: Pakistan and Turkish naval ships took part in a bilateral exercise Turgutreis-VII comprising operations including defe­nce against asymmetric attacks, visit board search and seizure, air defence exercises and joint coordinated patrol.

The two navies also conducted joint patrolling in the North Arabian Sea to further hone professional skills and enhance interoperability.

The visit of the Turkish Navy ship TCG Burgazada to Pakistan is a manifestation of strong bilateral ties between the two countries and the exercise is a testimony of Pakistan Navy’s resolve towards regional peace and maintenance of order at sea.

At the Karachi port, TCG Burgazada was earlier welcomed by senior officers of the Pakistan Navy along with officials of the Turkiye Consulate.

During stay at the port, the commanding officer of the Turkish ship called on the Pakistan Fleet Commander to discuss matters of mutual interest and bilateral collaboration.

Before the exercise and joint patrolling, navies of the two countries participated in several activities with an aim to strengthen mutual cooperation and integration including joint professional interactions including planning of a bilateral exercise at sea, table top discussions on professional topics, sports and social events including wreath-laying at the mausoleum of the Quaid-i-Azam.

Published in Dawn, December 31st, 2022