KARACHI: The five-day Multinational Maritime Exercise “AMAN-19” commenced in Karachi on Friday morning with the slogan “Together for Peace”.
Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi was the chief guest of the opening ceremony.
The flag of 46 countries including Pakistan were hoisted and the contingents of Pakistan Navy presented a march-past.
Addressing the ceremony, Vice Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi said that the exercise AMAN, which means Peace, is a step to enhance cooperation, take benefit from mutual advantage and understand each other.
He said that maritime security is pivotal for national security and protection of maritime routes is also necessary for the economy. Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Army are also taking part in the exercise. Ambassadors and delegates of various countries are also present in the inauguration ceremony.
Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi shared the details of AMAN 2019 with media, saying, the exercise was started in 2007 and it has been regularly conducted after every two years.
The exercise has two major phases: harbour and sea phases. Harbour activities would include seminars, discussions and demonstrations. In tandem, a three-day International Maritime Conference will also be held on the topic “Global Geopolitics in Transition: Rethinking Maritime Dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region”.
The vice admiral said that Pakistan has remained steadfast in fighting the forces of terror and tyranny. Despite countless sacrifices and losses, the country continues to be responsible state cognizant of its role and significance in the international system. Like any maritime nation, Pakistan has substantial stakes in the maritime domain.
Commander Pakistan Fleet said that, the principle purpose of this exercise is to provide a forum for understanding of each other’s maritime concepts, operational cultures and identifying ways & means to combat common threats at sea. Overall, Exercise AMAN is about bridging gaps and making it possible to operate together in pursuance of shared objectives.
