KARACHI: Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) SAIF visited the Port of Male as part of its ongoing overseas deployment, where it received a warm welcome from Maldivian authorities.
The visit marked another step in strengthening defence cooperation and maritime relations between Pakistan and the Republic of Maldives.
During the port call, Mission Commander Commodore Muhammad Zeshan Nabi Sheikh met with key Maldivian military leaders, including Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy and Commandant of the Maldives Coast Guard Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem. He also visited the High Commission of Pakistan, meeting High Commissioner Vice Admiral (Retired) Faisal Rasul Lodhi.
PNS SAIF visited Port of Male during its overseas deployment. Mission Cdr Cdre Muhammad Zeshan Nabi Sheikh met Chief of Defence Force Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy, Coast Guard Cmdt Brig Gen Mohamed Saleem & Pak HC V/Adm (R) Faisal Rasul Lodhi to discuss maritime cooperation.
Discussions focused on maritime security collaboration, regional stability, and joint naval engagements, while the Mission Commander conveyed warm wishes from Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff of Pakistan, to the people of Maldives.
The port visit drew the attention of government officials, foreign ambassadors, and members of the diplomatic corps, who toured the ship during its stay in Male. The Pakistan Navy also opened the vessel to members of the Pakistani community in the Maldives, fostering goodwill and showcasing Pakistan’s naval capabilities.
Following the visit, PNS SAIF participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Maldives Coast Guard vessels, a collaborative manoeuvre designed to improve interoperability, operational readiness, and coordination between the two naval forces.
