KARACHI: The crew of HMS Argyll, the Royal Navy ship which arrived here on Saturday, paid their respects to Commonwealth military officers who fought and died in this region in the World War-I and World War-II and laid to rest in Karachi.

The ceremony had a six person Guard of Honour from the Royal Marines.

After the ceremony, the British High Commissioner Thomas Drew laid wreaths for four British soldiers from Charterhouse School. This is part of the school’s initiative to remember its alumni. The High Commissioner is himself a Charterhouse alumnus.

Speaking after the ceremony, the British High Commissioner, Thomas Drew, said: “I am privileged today to remember the sacrifices of the war dead, whose towering legacy remains as important today as it ever has. I am proud that we can commemorate this occasion by paying respects with the Royal Marines.”

HMS Argyll is a Type-23 Guided Missile Frigate which was commissioned in Royal Navy in 1991.

The Royal Navy Ship’s visit to Pakistan is aimed at strengthening mutual collaboration and interoperability between the two navies through conduct of exercises and discussions on issues of common interest. During the visit to Karachi, professional interactions, sports and social activities will also be held.

The visit will be followed by Pakistan Navy and Royal Navy bilateral exercises at sea. The bilateral exercise will cover a wide range of naval operations aimed at enhancing interoperability between the two navies.

An impressive reception was arranged by Pakistan Navy to welcome HMS Argyll at the Karachi Port. The ship was received by senior PN officials and members from the British High Commission.

Earlier in July, Pakistan Navy F-22P Frigate had also visited Portsmouth, UK.

Published in Dawn, September 16th, 2018