KARACHI: Naval platforms of nine countries participating in Pakistan Navy’s multinational exercise Aman-2017 arrived here on Thursday.

The exercise formally beginning from Friday morning is the fifth such exercise in which 37 countries, including Pakistan, will take part. Nine of the visitors — Australia, China, Indonesia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan and Russia — are participating with naval assets.

On Thursday, the US Navy arrived with USS Amelia Earhart (oiler), USCGS Maui, USCGC Aquidneck and USS Typhoon.

Russia arrived with Severomorsk (ASW), Altay (tugboat) and Dubna (tanker).

China came with Harbin DDG 112, Handan FFG 575 and Dongphingu AO 960.

Sri Lanka came with SLS Samudra. Turkey also joined in with TCG Gelibolu, the UK brought HMS Daring and Indonesia came with KRI Sultan Iskandarmuda.

Australia is participating with HMAS Arunta and Japan with two P3C Orion aircraft.

The visiting ships upon their arrival were given a warm welcome by senior Pakistan Navy officials. Officials of the consulates of the visiting countries were also present on the occasion.

Aman-2017 will see the participating units rehearse various naval operations to enhance mutual understanding and regional stability. The aim behind the multinational exercise is to display united resolve against terrorism and crimes in the maritime domain.

Published in Dawn, February 10th, 2017