Pak Navy Ship visits Muscat during RMSP deployment

KARACHI: Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Khaibar visited Muscat during ship’s deployment on Regional Maritime Security Patrol (RMSP) in Gulf of Oman.

The objective of RMSP initiative by PN is to maintain presence along critical areas to fulfill international obligations for maritime security and safeguard national shipping while observing freedom of navigation across high seas, said a press release issued here by Directorate of Public Relations of Pakistan Navy.

The PNS Khaibar is part of 25th Destroyer Squadron of Pakistan Navy Fleet and is capable to undertake variety of maritime operations in multi-threat environment. The ship is also embarked with organic Alouette helicopter.

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Pakistan and Oman enjoy close diplomatic ties and cordial relations. The visit of PNS Khaibar provided opportunity to further strengthen these relations while celebrating Defence Day of Pakistan with Pakistani community at Oman with fervor.

In this regard, a reception was hosted onboard PN Ship. Commodore Said bin Abdullah Al Saadi, Deputy Commander Royal Navy of Oman attended the reception as chief guest. Ambassador of Pakistan in Oman Ali Javed co-hosted the event along with the ship’s commanding Officer.

The reception was attended by a large number of guests including prominent government representatives of Sultanate of Oman besides ambassadors of Bahrain, KSA, Lebanon, Qatar, Sudan and Turkey.

Moreover, defence attaches of China, Egypt, France, Iran, Italy, KSA, Republic of Korea, Turkey and USA were also present on the occasion.

Officers and men of PNS Khaibar remained engaged in various interactions during the port visit to ensure continuity of strong bilateral collaboration with Oman. During official visits, the commanding officer called on Commodore Saif bin Mohammed bin Hudaib Al-Habsi, Commander of the Said Bin Sultan Naval Base, and other military officials.

Other activities included visit of the ship’s officers and CPOs/sailors to Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum and visit of officers/personnel from Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and Royal Army of Oman onboard PNS Khaibar. The ship was also opened to visitors wherein a large number of Pakistani community and school children visited the ship.

In order to enhance interoperability with the host navy, the ship also conducted Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with RNOV al Naasir. Upon completion of PASSEX, PNS Khaibar has proceeded towards its deployment area in Gulf of Oman to resume Regional Maritime Security Patrol.