In a significant development, China and Pakistan have initiated their first-ever joint naval patrol in the northern Arabian Sea, marking a crucial moment in their evolving maritime alliance. This unprecedented collaboration underscores the commitment of both nations to safeguarding the security of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of trade and commerce in the region.
The historic joint patrol, conducted as part of the ongoing Sea Guardian-3 exercise, saw the meticulous patrolling of the waters surrounding critical maritime routes and port channels in the northern Arabian Sea by the PLA Navy's Type 054A frigate Linyi and the Pakistan Navy's F-22P frigate Saif. This collaborative effort is a tangible expression of the deepening military ties between China and Pakistan, emphasizing their shared interests in securing maritime trade routes and safeguarding the CPEC.
Beyond the joint patrol, the Sea Guardian-3 exercise included a comprehensive series of drills involving six warships from both sides. These drills covered various domains, including visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) operations, aerial photography, air defense, communications, and joint anti-submarine warfare. The exercise serves as a testament to the growing interoperability between the two navies, showcasing their ability to work seamlessly together in a complex maritime environment.
The Sea Guardian-3 exercise represents the third and most extensive iteration of this bilateral naval cooperation. The inaugural edition occurred in 2020 in the northern Arabian Sea, followed by the second in 2022 off the coast of Shanghai. These exercises underscore the burgeoning maritime alliance between China and Pakistan, fueled by their shared interests in securing maritime trade routes and safeguarding the CPEC.
Experts anticipate that joint naval patrols of this nature will become a regular feature, further solidifying maritime cooperation between China and Pakistan. The Arabian Sea, a vital artery for goods and energy transportation, is critical to the success of the CPEC. Therefore, ensuring the safety and security of this sea lane is paramount for both countries.
As China and Pakistan continue to strengthen their military ties, their joint naval patrols and exercises play a pivotal role in safeguarding their maritime interests and fostering stability in the region. These collaborations underscore the two countries' commitment to working together to address shared maritime challenges and ensure the unimpeded flow of trade and commerce.
The deepening maritime partnership between China and Pakistan serves as a beacon of cooperation in the region, signaling their dedication to upholding maritime security and promoting regional stability.
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Naval Force