Pakistan naval ship makes goodwill visit

Manama : Pakistan Naval Ship PNS Alamgir has arrived in Bahrain on a good-will visit. A special reception was organised on board the well-known naval ship PNS Alamgir as it arrived on a goodwill port call in the Kingdom commanded by Captain Imtiaz Ali. 

Pakistani Ambassador Javed Malik welcomed guests that included diplomats, naval officers and members of the community. The reception was also a grand finale of a series of celebrations of Pakistan Independence Day that have been going on in Bahrain since August 14.

In his welcome speech the Ambassador highlighted the close maritime and defence cooperation between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Bahrain, and said that the visit by PNS Alamgir underscores the importance Pakistan attaches to its fraternal ties with the Kingdom, and its commitment to regional stability.  The Ambassador highlighted that Pakistan Navy is a highly effective, efficient and integral part of the Armed Forces of Pakistan that is fully capable of keeping their maritime interests protected while also maintaining their deterrence.

Ambassador Javed Malik said that, Pakistan will continue to play its positive role in peacekeeping and ensuring regional stability. He also highlighted the significant role Pakistan Navy was playing in the Combined Task Force, and just a day ago on August 17, Pakistan Navy had assumed command of Combined Task Force (CTF-150)  from France as part of the Combined Maritime Force (CMF) which is  contributing towards peace and stability of the region.    

Last week, the Pakistani frigate PNS Alamgir  and the Australian frigate HMAS Newcastle conducted a simultaneous replenishment at sea with the USNS Kanawha. This was followed by an opportunity to practice close in manoeuvres and improve interoperability. Both vessels are operating in the Gulf of Aden in direct support to CTF 150 and its counter terrorism mission.

 PNS Alamgir is 453 feet long and displaces 4100 tons. It is propelled by 2 gas turbines on a single shaft and can achieve speeds in excess of 30 kts in 100 secs. Ship is well equipped for various national and multinational taskings. PNS Alamgir can carry two helicopters for multiple tasks.