Admiral Naveed Ashraf takes charge as Pakistan's 23rd naval chief

Admiral Naveed Ashraf Saturday took charge as the 23rd naval chief of the country following a change of command ceremony in Islamabad.

The outgoing naval chief Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi handed over the command to the newly-appointed head of the navy, Radio Pakistan reported.

Earlier this week, the Director General Public Relations (Navy) made an announcement regarding the appointment, stating that the change of command ceremony will take place on October 7 (today). 

The DGPR added that the vice admiral would be given the four-star rank on the same day as well so he takes charge as the chief of naval staff.

During his farewell address, Admiral Niazi congratulated the incumbent chief — known for his vast experience of working in key command and staff positions — for assuming command, praising his distinguished career which is decked with notable achievements.

The outgoing naval chief expressed confidence in Admiral Naveed Ashraf's ability and worth as his successor who, he added, would lead the force to new heights.

Speaking about the Pakistan Navy's strength, the now-retired Admiral Niazi, said: "Pakistan Navy stands as a strong and vital arm of the country's armed forces capable of protecting our maritime frontiers."

Pakistan, he added, believes in collaboration when it comes to maritime security.

Commenting on the hypocritical ways of India, the former naval chief said the pronounced fundamentalism, extremism and bigotry in "our neighborhood" will now be evident as it transitions into Bharat.

"This implies a significant war-mongering and expansion-centered agenda that will complicate security challenges in the future," the ex-naval chief maintained.

He added that Pakistan must be prepared to respond to the challenges with professionalism, preparedness and unwavering self-esteem.

The outgoing chief also spoke about the significance of the blue economy, stating that it is very important for any country.

Who is Admiral Naveed Ashraf?

Admiral Naveed Ashraf was commissioned in the Operations Branch of the Pakistan Navy in 1989. He was awarded the Quaid-e-Azam Gold Medal on successful completion of initial naval training in Germany and Pakistan.

During his illustrious naval career, the Flag Officer has served on various command and staff appointments. His rich command experience of over 10 years includes Commanding Officer of a Gun Boat, a Mine Hunter, three Destroyers and Command of 25th and 18th Destroyer Squadrons.

Besides, Admiral Ashraf remained Commandant of Pakistan Naval Academy and had the honour of commanding the Pakistan Navy Fleet.

His distinguished staff appointments include Fleet Operations Officer at HQ Commander Pakistan Fleet, Captain Training at HQ Flag Officer Sea Training, Chief Staff Officer to Task Force-151 at HQ NAVCENT Bahrain, Deputy President National Defence University, Naval Secretary, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (Admin), Director General C4I, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (Training & Personnel) and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (Operations).

He is a graduate of Pakistan Navy War College Lahore, National Defence University Islamabad, Naval Staff College USA and Royal College of Defence Studies UK.

In recognition of his meritorious services, the Flag Officer has been awarded Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) and Tamgha-e-Basalat.