Islamabad,(Parliament Times):Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf on Wednesday drew attention to growing challenges in the maritime domain, warning of risks to freedom of navigation and possible disruptions to critical Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) in light of the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Pakistan Navy’s Command and Staff Conference concluded at Naval Headquarters in Islamabad under the chairmanship of the naval chief. The meeting was attended by principal staff officers and field commanders.
During the conference, Admiral Ashraf emphasized the need to maintain constant combat readiness to effectively address both traditional and non-traditional maritime threats. He noted that the evolving regional dynamics have created a volatile security environment, particularly around key strategic choke points.
He stressed that emerging maritime threats, including challenges to freedom of navigation and potential disruptions to vital shipping routes, require sustained vigilance.
Highlighting future preparedness, the naval chief underscored the importance of acquiring advanced and specialized technologies, calling them a strategic necessity for the Pakistan Navy.
He also reaffirmed the navy’s critical role in ensuring regional peace and stability, noting its active presence in the Gulf of Oman to reassure the maritime community.
The conference also marked the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, paying tribute to the sacrifices made during the May 2025 conflict. Admiral Ashraf described the victory as a reflection of national unity and firm resolve to counter external aggression.
Participants reviewed operational preparedness, ongoing initiatives, and future plans, with a focus on aligning naval priorities with the evolving maritime security landscape.