Third maritime patrol ship inducted for security of CPEC

Pakistan has inducted PMSS Dasht as the third Chinese-built maritime patrol ship for the protection and security of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The other two ships are the PMSS Hingol and the PMSS Basol, reports the Dawn.

The induction ceremony was done in the presence of Minister for Ports and Shipping Mir Hasil Khan Bizenjo.

Speaking on the occasion, Bizenjo said major challenges have been witnessed and experienced by Pakistan and with the inception of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the nation has become a centre of global attention.

The PMSS Dasht has been built for the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) and arrived in Karachi earlier this month.

Bizenjo was quoted, as saying, "The CPEC has the potential to change the regional canvas and the world. The importance of the project for Pakistan's strategic strength and economic prosperity needs no elaboration. Every effort is being made to secure the important trade lifeline both on land and at sea."

He added,"The government allocated over USD 150 million to enable the PMSA fleet to protect our maritime area and sea lines of communication. This will add a great deal to the security fibre not only for the CPEC but for all maritime zones of Pakistan."

He said that he had met a few Chinese engineers and technicians associated with the project and appreciated their valuable contribution and shows the strength of deep-rooted friendship between Islamabad and Beijing.

Meanwhile, two more ships are under construction at the Karachi shipyard.