Pakistan navy ship Aslat has concluded a four-day goodwill visit to the Maldivian capital, Male’ City, on Sunday.
Upon arrival on Thursday, the ship was warmly welcomed by Defence Advisor Pakistan and officials of Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF).
While at port, Commanding Officer of PNS Aslat, Captain Muhammad Azhar Akram of the Pakistan Navy, met with High Commissioner of Pakistan Vice Admiral (R) Faisal Rasul Lodhi, Chief of Defence Force of the Maldives Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, and the Commandant of the Coast Guard.
The meetings saw discussions on topics of mutual interest. Captain Akram also conveyed the best wishes of Admiral Naveed Ashraf NI(M) T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff, to the people of the Maldives, particularly MNDF.
On Thursday, PNS Aslat hosted Iftar cum Dinner Reception onboard with the aim to enhance bilateral ties while showcasing Pakistan culture and cuisine. Chief of Defense Force Hilmy was the chief guest at the event which was attended by distinguished guests including ministers, lawmakers, senior government officials, high commissioners and representatives from diplomatic missions. The event was also attended by officials from MNDF and prominent members of Pakistan community in Maldives.
Apart from this, MNDF officials also visited PNS Aslat to share operational experiences and enhance interoperability. A bilateral exercise was also conducted with Maldivian Coastguard to further enhance interoperability and operational relationship.
Pakistan High Commission in the Maldives has described the visit as the strong bilateral strategic relations between the two countries.