Italian Navy ship arrives in Pakistan's Karachi to strengthen maritime cooperation
ISLAMABAD: The Italian Navy ship Antonio Marceglia arrived in the southern port city of Karachi on Tuesday to strengthen maritime cooperation with Pakistan and partake in warfare-related exercises, Pakistan Navy's military media wing said.
The Italian ship arrived at the Karachi Port for a three-day goodwill visit during which the commanding officer and crew of the Antonio Marceglia were accorded a warm welcome by Pakistan Navy officials, the Italian ambassador to Pakistan and other officials of the Italian consulate in Karachi.
The Director-General of Public Relations (DGPR) of the Pakistan Navy said in a statement that the Italian ship's crew will participate in a range of professional engagements during its port call. These include cross-ship visits, discussions on maritime security and joint training sessions.
'These engagements are designed to foster deeper mutual understanding, enhance bilateral naval cooperation and advance operational interoperability between the two navies,' the Pakistan Navy said.
It said the visit would culminate in the Sea Phase, which would feature various warfare-related exercises designed to enhance tactical coordination and maritime security operations of both navies.
'The visit of Italian Navy Ship ITS ANTONIO MARCEGLIA reinforces growing maritime partnership between both countries,' the statement said. 'It also reflects shared resolve of both navies to work together for regional stability.'
Pakistan regularly collaborates with its counterparts from various parts of the world to ensure illicit activities such as smuggling, drug trafficking and piracy are kept in check.
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