ISLAMABAD, May 3: President General Pervez Musharraf has said the nation has complete trust and confidence in the operational preparedness, professional capabilities and devotion to duty of Pakistan Navy with regard to the defence of the country’s maritime frontiers.

According to a press release, the president made these observations during his visit to the naval headquarters here on Wednesday. He said maritime activity contributed manifold to the country’s progress and economic activity.

He stated that the government would continue to support and strengthen the entire maritime sector. He reiterated that no effort would be spared to further enhance the defence capabilities of the navy to safeguard the sea frontiers.

The president congratulated the Pakistan Navy for being the first in the region to take over the command of CTF-150.

He said all requirements of the navy would be met on a priority basis to bring it at par with the modern navies of the world. He said the focus of the government was on economic development, and the development of coastal areas was a major priority in this regard.

Earlier, on arrival at the naval headquarters, the president was received by the Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Afzal Tahir. A contingent of the navy presented the guard of honour on the occasion.

Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (operations) Rear Admiral Mohammad Shafi gave a briefing to the president about the role of the navy in the emerging regional maritime scenario.