'Pakistan to play key role in Indian Ocean region'

The Pakistan Navy will play a significant role for maintenance of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region, the country's naval chief Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah has said.

He said this in an address to the navy's Command and Staff Conference here on Tuesday, in which the matters related to operational preparedness, prevailing security situation and developmental plans of the Pakistan Navy were reviewed.

The naval chief was briefed about ongoing and future projects and plans, Pakistan Today reported.

Zakaullah reiterated the navy's resolve to safeguard maritime frontiers of Pakistan against all threats.

He urged the commanders to remain at highest state of preparedness and maintain a constant vigil in their area of responsibility (AoR).

Zakaullah also appreciated successful test launch of the land-based anti-ship missile by the Pakistan Navy.

He said this weapon system had added a new dimension in the operational reach of the Pakistan Navy which would be able to further bolster seaward defence of the nation by having the capability of launching long range anti-ship missiles from land.

--IANS

py/vt