ISLAMABAD, April 02 (APP): Commander Turkish Naval Forces, Vice Admiral Adnan Ozbal here on Monday visited Naval Headquarters and called on Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi as part of a bilateral visit aimed at enhancing collaboration between the two navies.
Upon arrival at Naval Headquarters, the dignitarywas received by Chief of the Naval Staff. A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Navy presented Guard of Honour. The visiting dignitary was then introduced to Principal Staff Officers at NHQ.
Later, Vice Admiral Adnan Ozbal called on Chief of the Naval Staff in his office, where discussions on professional matters of mutual interests and bilateral naval collaboration were held. Various avenues of cooperation including training, exchange of visits and conduct of bilateral naval exercises between the two Navies were also focused. Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi highlighted Pakistan’s commitment and contributions in fight against terrorism including participation of Pakistan Navy in Coalition Task Forces against piracy and maritime terrorism. Vice Admiral Adnan Ozbal highly appreciated role and contributions of Pakistan Navy in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The call was followed by a briefing on Pakistan Navy’s perspective on regional issues and PN contributions towards peace and stability in the Indian Ocean. Later, Chief of Turkish Navy also laid floral wreath at Shuhada Monument at Naval Headquarters.
The visit of Naval Headquarters was followed by animpressive Investiture Ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Saddar, where Vice Admiral Adnan Ozbal was conferred with Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) by President Mr. Mamnoon Hussain; one of Pakistan’s highest military awards, in recognition of his distinguished services and significant contributions towards strengthening fraternal ties between Pakistan and Turkey in general and Navies of both the brotherly nations in particular.
Later, Commander Turkish Naval Forces is scheduled to visit Pakistan Navy Field Commands atLahore & Karachi. The Admiral’s visit is taking place concurrent with the port visit of TCG GELIBOLU, Turkish Navy Frigate and 1st PN-TN Bilateral Naval Exercise in North Arabian Sea from 7-9 Apr 2018.
APP/ Hamza/anm