A flotilla from the Pakistan Navy, consisting of PN Ships HIMMAT, DEHSHAT, and MUHAFIZ, recently undertook an overseas deployment to the Gulf countries. Among their destinations was Port Umm Qasr in Iraq, where they embarked on a significant diplomatic mission. This mission aimed to strengthen the already existing bonds between Pakistan and Iraq while fostering cooperation in various domains.
Upon their arrival at Port Umm Qasr, the PN Ships received a warm welcome from the Commander of Umm Qasr Naval Base, Rear Admiral Laith Abdal Satar, along with senior Iraqi Navy officials and Pakistan's Defence Attaché in Iraq. The leadership of the mission, including the Mission Commander and Commanding Officers of the ships, held discussions with Rear Admiral Mazin Abdul Wahid, the Commander of the Iraqi Navy, and other key naval figures.
These interactions delved into matters of mutual interest, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to enhance their bilateral ties across all spheres. The Mission Commander conveyed heartfelt well wishes from Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi to the people of Iraq and, in particular, the Iraqi Navy. A reception dinner was graciously hosted on board PNS MUHAFIZ, presided over by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Iraq.
The reception saw attendance from officials of the Iraqi Navy and prominent members of the Pakistani community in Iraq, further solidifying the bonds between the two nations. During their port call, various bilateral activities took place, including exchange visits aboard the ships, orientation tours of military installations for PN personnel, and coordination meetings to plan joint exercises at sea.
Subsequently, the PN ships engaged in a sea exercise with an Iraqi Navy ship, aimed at enhancing interoperability and cooperation between the two navies. This port visit to Iraq is expected to significantly boost the already close diplomatic relations and cordial ties between Pakistan and Iraq, demonstrating the commitment of both countries to regional stability and collaboration, as emphasized by Pakistan Navy officials