Pakistan, Japan hold joint naval drills in Gulf of Aden

Passage exercise is part of international efforts to counter piracy and ensure security of international shipping

Pakistan Navy Ship Zulfiquar has participated in passage exercise (PASSEX) with Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) ship Onami in Gulf of Aden.

Both the ships are presently operating in vital area of Gulf of Aden as part of international efforts to counter piracy and ensure security of international shipping, a statement issued by the Pakistan Navy said on Tuesday.

#PNSZULFIQUAR participated in Passage Ex(PASSEX) with #JapaneseMaritime Self Defense Force Ship #ONAMI in Gulf of #Aden. PASSEX aim to ensure maritime security in the region. It will further strengthen bilateral ties with #JMSDF#APPNews @dgprPaknavy @MofaJapan_en @JapanGov pic.twitter.com/1JFO5uCb4h

— APP 🇵🇰 🇵🇰 (@appcsocialmedia) October 6, 2020

 

The passage exercise encompassed various operational serials with aim to enhance interoperability and augment collaborative efforts to ensure maritime security in the region.

PNS Zulfiquar is also undertaking Regional Maritime Security Patrol (RMSP) in Gulf of Aden. “The exercise is testimony of the PN's resolve to provide secure maritime environment in the global commons for international shipping and contribute towards international efforts to counter illicit activities at sea,” the communique added.

The Pakistan Navy, in line with the government policies, has always remained committed to play its role in ensuring maritime safety and security in the region, it also said.

The exercise will further contribute in improving the bilateral ties between the Pakistan Navy and JMSDF.