Pakistan, Chinese Navy begin sixth bilateral exercise Sea Guardians 2020

KARACHI: Opening Ceremony of sixth bilateral exercise Sea Guardians-2020 between Pakistan Navy and PLA (Navy), was held at Pakistan Navy Dockyard on Monday.

Deputy Commander of Southern Theatre Command PLA, Vice Admiral Dong Jun graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Commander Pakistan Fleet, Vice Admiral Asif Khaliq was also present at the occasion.

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In his opening remarks, Vice Admiral Asif Khaliq welcomed the Chinese officers and personnel, alluding to the evergreen, warm and eternally cordial relations between the two countries in general and navies in particular.

While underscoring the importance of immaculate &sound planning during the exercise, the Admiral hoped that this exercise will prove to be another stepping stone in augmenting interoperability and strategic cooperation between both the navies.

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Earlier, Deputy Commander of Southern Theatre Command PLA, Vice Admiral Dong Jun thanked Pakistan Navy for hosting Exercise Sea Guardians and hoped to have a mutually benefiting and professionally rewarding experience from the joint exercise.

Chinese Flotilla comprising naval platforms/assets along with PLA (Navy) Marines Corps Detachment, arrived Karachi to participate in the exercise. During exercise, frontline destroyers/ frigates along with Air and other assets and Marines/ Special Forces from Pakistan Navy and PLA (Navy) will carry out advance level joint drills and naval maneuvers in the North Arabian Sea.

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In addition, during harbour phase, various professional and social activities will also be conducted. The activities of the exercise will also be witnessed by senior officials from both the navies.

Exercise Sea Guardians-2020 is aimed at sharing professional experiences on contemporary and non-traditional threats at sea, improve security cooperation and promote safe and sustainable maritime environment in the region.

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The exercise is a reflection of strong bilateral military cooperation between Pakistan Navy and Chinese Navy and will foster greater bilateral cooperation between the two navies. The ceremony was attended by a large number of military officials from both the navies.