The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard and Pakistan Navy Ship Aslat conducted joint training programmes, underscoring their enduring partnership and shared dedication to maritime collaboration.
The PNS Aslat, a Zulfiquar-class guided missile frigate, made its arrival in Maldivian waters on Thursday as part of a goodwill mission. Its presence was marked by a formal reception, where senior officials of the MNDF and the Pakistani Defence Advisor to the Maldives extended a warm welcome to the ship and its crew.
During the four-day visit, the frigate's commanding officer, Captain Mohamed Azhar Akram, held strategic discussions with key figures in defence and diplomacy. His engagements included dialogues with Vice Admiral (Retired) Faisal Rasul Lodhi, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the Maldives, and Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force of the Maldives. These high-level meetings were complemented by interactions with senior officials from the MNDF Coast Guard.
The visit also featured an Iftar dinner hosted by Captain Akram aboard the vessel. The gathering brought together prominent figures, including cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, senior government officials, and representatives from various foreign missions in the Maldives.