China’s naval chief lauds Pakistan’s pivotal role

KARACHI: The head of China’s navy on Wednesday acknowledged Pakistan Navy’s role in ensuring maritime security and stability in the region.

“Pakistan, as a responsible state, is playing a pivotal role for maritime security and stability in the region, which has greatly helped in shaping a secure environment for freedom of navigation in the region,” Commander of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), Admiral Wu Shengli, said in a meeting with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah.



Admiral Shengli is visiting Pakistan on Admiral Zakaullah’s invitation. Upon arrival on Wednesday, the PLAN commander was received by the Pakistan Navy chief. A contingent of naval officers presented him with a guard of honour.

During their meeting, Admiral Shengli and Admiral Zakaullah held detailed discussions on professional matters, an official press release said. The PLAN commander was briefed comprehensively on operational developments. He lauded Pakistan Navy’s efforts and focused commitments in support of collaborative maritime security in the region.



Published in The Express Tribune, May 19^th, 2016.