Karachi, Today, a joint press conference was held in Karachi to discuss the details of Exercise Sea Guardian 2023, a naval exercise involving the Pakistan Navy and the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) of China. The event was briefed by Commodore Asim Sohail Malik from the Pakistan Navy and Senior Captain Qi Jian from the PLA Navy, highlighting the exercise’s objectives and structure.
According to Directorate General Public Relations (Pakistan Navy), Commodore Asim Sohail Malik emphasized the longstanding and strategically significant relationship between Pakistan and China. He expressed that Exercise Sea Guardian 2023 would not only reinforce the enduring friendship between the two nations but also open new avenues for maritime cooperation in addressing regional threats. Senior Captain Qi Jian of the PLA Navy outlined the exercise’s commitment to strengthening the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries. The exercise aims to enhance defense cooperation, deepen professional exchanges, and establish a regular mechanism for joint exercises. It also demonstrates the shared mission and determination of both countries to defend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and build a closer community with a shared future in the new era.
The exercise features a variety of naval assets, including frontline destroyers, frigates, helicopters, rescue ships, submarines, and special forces from both navies. It is divided into two phases: the Harbour phase and the Sea phase. The Harbour activities involve sharing experiences on contemporary maritime security threats and challenges through workshops, seminars, and discussions. The Sea Phase, scheduled to take place in the North Arabian Sea from November 14 to 16, 2023, will include advanced naval operations like maritime security operations, tactical maneuvers, warfare exercises, and search and rescue operations to address various threats at sea.
The first bilateral Exercise Sea Guardian with the People’s Liberation Army (Navy) was held in 2014 and has been conducted annually, alternating between Pakistan and China.