Japanese ship arrives in Karachi for naval exercises

The Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) ship YUUGIRI arrived at the Karachi port to participate in naval exercises with Pakistani ships.

A reception was arranged by the Pakistan Navy to welcome the JMSDF ship. Senior officials of the Pakistan Navy and the defence attaché of Japan received the ship.

A spokesman for the Pakistan Navy said the Pakistan Navy and JMSDF enjoyed longstanding cordial relations and both the navies had been working together to ensure safe and secure maritime environment in the region.

Ships of both the navies have conducted sea exercises at various occasions. The Japanese Ship also participated in Ex AMAN-21 held in Pakistani waters in February this year.

After reaching the port, sea exercises were conducted between the JMSDF and Pakistan Navy ships covering a wide range of naval operations. The exercise was aimed at enhancing interoperability and contributing towards international efforts for ensuring maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

The spokesman maintained that the exercise with the JMSDF ship YUUGIRI was a testimony of the Pakistan Navy’s resolve to work towards regional peace and it would further strengthen mutual collaboration between the two navies.