ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy flotilla comprising multi-mission frigate PNS SAIF and combat support ship PNS NASR is on an Overseas Deployment to South East Asian countries under the command of Commodore Zaka Ur Rehman SI(M), Commander 25th Destroyer Squadron as mission commander.

During the Overseas Deployment, the ships undertook a 3-day good will visit to the Port of Male, Maldives. Upon arrival at Male, PN flotilla was warmly received by Principle Director of Maldivian Coast Guard, Lt Col Muhammad Saleem, Officers from Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) and Pakistan Embassy staff.

During the stay, PN Mission Commander along with Commanding Officers of both ships held meetings with various high ranking officials of MNDF. Matters related to bilateral issues were deliberated upon during these talks.

A reception was also hosted onboard PNS NASR which was attended by dignitaries from Government, Military and Civil sectors. Maj Gen Ahmed Shiyam, Chief of Defence Force MNDF was the chief guest on the occasion.

On culmination of port visit, the PN flotilla conducted Passage Exercise with Maldives Coast Guard boats in the Indian Ocean with an aim to enhance interoperability between the two maritime forces.—PR