PNS ASLAT hosts reception dinner at Portsmouth
PNS ASLAT hosted reception dinner on 20 July 2018 at Portsmouth, UK. The event received a gratifying response and was attended by large number of guests. 2nd Sea Lord Vice Admiral Anthony Radakin graced the occasion as Chief Guest. H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, the High Commissioner, UK’s Trade Enoy for Pakistan Mr Rehman Chishti MP, Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Representatives of UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) and UK MoD, Commander Portsmouth Flotilla and Defence Attaches of various countries attended the dinner. A large Royal Navy, Army and Air Force presence was also witnessed on the occasion.
During his welcome address Mission Commander Commodore Muhammad Faisal Abbasi SI(M) highlighted that Seafarers have been and continue to play key role in strengthening the bonds of friendship between nations through naval diplomacy. He applauded that our visit to United Kingdom is aimed at enhancing interoperability and foster Navy to Navy relations. He mentioned that Port Call followed by bilateral PN – RN naval exercise is a clear manifestation of our deep rooted relationship.
While addressing, HE Syed Ibne Abbas, High Commissioner highlighted that Pakistan and UK have historical association and maintain cordial relations. Pakistan and UK enjoy strong political, diplomatic, economic and military ties. The High Commissioner reiterated that PNS ASLAT’s path breaking Port Call to UK will go a long way in strengthening bilateral relations between the UK and Pakistan.
Second Sea Lord Vice Admiral Anthony Radakin while addressing, mentioned that PN and RN have been operating with each other since long as both have been active participants in Multinational Coalition Operations. He appreciated efforts made by Pakistan Navy towards combating security threats in Maritime domain and applauded professional competence of men. He highlighted that British Ships acquired from Royal Navy have been maintained, well integrated into PN Fleet and operationally utilized in a far better way. He wished to see PN Ships visiting UK frequently and with less time gap in future.
