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| | GEO Pakistan | | Indian submarine affects security balance: Pak Navy | Updated at: 1757 PST, Wednesday, July 29, 2009
 BEIJING: Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Noman Bashir Wednesday said India's launch of a nuclear-powered submarine has affected the security balance in Arabia Sea, as the sea is highly vital for the entire world and Pakistan does not want anyone’s hegemony on it.
The induction of Chinese F-22P frigates in Pakistan Navy is ``a very big leap forward in respect of Pak-China bilateral cooperation and help enhance our defence capability,'' noted visiting Admiral Noman Bashir while talking to journalists here.
``We are looking beyond F-22P frigates. I had very useful discussions at leadership level here and look forward for commissioning of first F-22P frigate named PNS Zulfiqar on July 30constructed in Shanghai.
``Because of extremely cordial relations between two countries as well as among the two navies, it was very important for me to meet our most trusted friends and as soon as I got first opportunity I embarked on visit to China,'' Admiral Bashir stated.
Commenting on Indian submarine, he said Pakistan had prior information about this project and the nuclear-powered submarine has changed the security situation of Arabia Sea, adding Pakistan does not want to pursue the arms race, it has its own priorities.
He continued that Pakistan is taking up all imperative measures for its security.
The naval chief said Arabian Sea is a main means to link East with West and for oil supply, adding myriads vessels daily pass through it; therefore, it is highly important not only for Pakistan or China but also the whole world to safeguard Arabian sea.
“Therefore, Pakistan is against monopoly on this marine region.”
This is the responsibility of the entire world to ensure peace and security of Arabian Sea, he said hailing the presence of Chinese Task Force in Arabian Sea.
Pakistan Navy looks forward to working for common motives in collaboration with China for the peace in the region, he added.
Naval Chief said one of the important aspects of his visit was interactions and discussions on how to further they can make progress and strengthen the relationship at all levels. He described Pak-China relations as ``multi dimensional. Both countries have understanding on many issues, and cooperating in various civil and defence projects.''
Admiral Bashir said Chinese military production industry maintains very high quality, standard and Pakistan wants to benefit from their achievements.
Welcoming presence of Chinese Task-force in Indian Ocean, he said, ``we look forward for opportunities to work together for common objective of maintaining peace and security. Pakistan Navy is actively participating along with Navies of various countries including China in curbing piracy in sea of Aden. Our performance was highly acclaimed by major countries.'' |  |
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