950821

Leghari lauds

PN for visible

progress in

naval warfare

KARACHI: President Farooq Ahmed Khan Leghari has highly appreciated what he called the "visible progress" made by Pakistan Navy in all aspects of naval warfare.

Speaking at the concluding session of the Navy's annual war game "Hammerhead 95" at PN Tactical School in Dockyard, here on Monday, the President pointed out that Oceans have a most eclipsing and futuristic international character; a strong maritime strategy and naval presence is, therefore, necessary to ensure that our sovereignty is respected.

Emphasising the sacred nature of Jehad at sea, he called upon the navy to continue to do its best and come upto the expectations of the nation, whenever such an occasion arises.

Reiterating the Government's desire to provide navy with the best affordable weapons and equipment, he informed that the government was convinced about the navy's need to urgently replace its ageing surface platforms.

Underscoring the need for devotion to duty, he directed the naval personnel to train in peacetime so that a resounding success can be ensured in times of crises.

Earlier, welcoming the President, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Mansurul Haque expressed gratitude for allocating substantial resources to plug some serious imbalances in the navy's existing force structure.

Assuring the government of navy's operational readiness, the CNS reaffirmed the navy's unflinching resolve to defend the Sea Frontiers at any cost.

Later President Farooq Ahmed Khan Leghari visited the new construction yard, where he was briefed on the progress of construction of Fast Attack Craft (FAC) Larkana-II, navy's first indigenously developed missile craft.

The President also inspected the progress of work on module of the Minehunter MCMV-II which is presently being fitted out at the PN Dockyard.

The President attended a Bara Khana at PN Dockyard, hosted by Chief Petty Officers and sailors of Pakistan Navy.

Before departing the President announced a contribution of Rs 50 million for the betterment and welfare of CPO and sailors of Pakistan Navy.-APP