The five-day multinational maritime exercise AMAN-19 commenced in Karachi on Friday. The exercise is aimed at fostering maritime cooperation, promoting a safe and secure maritime environment for regional and global stability and for preserving oceans which is the common heritage of mankind.
Beginning in 2007, the exercise has been conducted regularly every two years. This year’s edition is scheduled to take place in the metropolis from February 8-12, with contingents from more than 45 countries participating in this year’s drill.
Speaking to the media, Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Amjad Niazi said the exercise is arranged by Pakistan Navy and is aimed at conveying a message of peace to the world.
“The principal purpose of this exercise is to provide a forum for an understanding of each other’s maritime concepts, operational cultures and identifying ways and means to combat common threats at sea,” he said.
“Exercise AMAN is about bridging gaps and making it possible to operate together,” he shared.
“At the heart of this entire endeavour is to work out possibilities for keeping the seas safe so that all positive maritime activities may go on without fear, threat or danger. Exercise AMAN signifies creation and sustenance of environment where navies from various countries can operate together under one theme: Together for Peace,” Admiral Niazi added.
Moreover, the admiral said the exercise will comprise two phases in which contingents will participate. “The exercise has two major phases: harbour and sea phases. Harbour activities would include seminars, discussions and demonstrations.”
“Pakistan has had a turbulent phase of its contemporary history, but it has remained steadfast in fighting forces of terror and tyranny,” he asserted
He continued, that despite countless sacrifices and losses, Pakistan continues to be a responsible state, cognisant of its role and significance in the international system. “Like any maritime nation, Pakistan has substantial stakes in the maritime domain,” he said.
“Our interest in safer and crime-free seas is rooted into three conspicuous realities: our extraordinary dependence on the seas for trade, operationalisation of CPEC project and our strategic location astride the global energy highway,” he added.
Published in Daily Times, February 9th 2019.
