ISLAMABAD – Pakistan will gift a Landing Craft to Maldives as part ofstrengthening the naval capability of the archipelago.

This announcement was made in a meeting between visiting Chief of NavalStaff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi and President of Maldives, AbdullaYameen Abdul Garoom in Malé on Monday.

The Landing Craft will assist Maldivian Coast Guard in its efforts tocontribute towards regional peace.

During the meeting, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi highlighted Pakistan’scommitment and performance in fight against terrorism including PakistanNavy’s contributions towards regional maritime security to ensure peace andstability in the Indian Ocean region.

He reiterated Pakistan’s continued support to Maldivian Armed Forces in thefield of training, provision of equipment, technical manpower and expertise.

Maldivian President acknowledged Pakistan Navy’s efforts for maintainingmaritime security in the region and thanked Chief of the Naval Staff forgifting of a Landing Craft Mechanized.

Earlier, the Naval Chief met Minister of Defence and National Security,Adam Shareef Umar and Chief of Defence Forces, Major General Ahmed Shiyam