KARACHI: The Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Asif Sandila, has said that Pakistan wants peace in the region and does not possess aggressive designs against any country.

He was speaking as chief guest at the launching of the second Fast Attack Craft (Missile) PNS Dehshat.

The ceremony was held on Thursday at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KSEW).

Naval Chief asserted that Pakistan's geographical position and current dictates of geo strategic environment necessitate building of a strong navy to defend its maritime interests.

“Our sea trade routes and vast EEZ need to be guarded”, he said adding that the international energy lines as well pass very close to our coast which need to be protected not only in the interest of our country but for the entire international community as well.

Admiral Asif Sandila stated that the Pakistan Navy will continue its efforts for maintaining maritime peace and stability in the region.

He was confident that the timely delivery of the second craft in Pakistan will be accomplished successfully with full cooperation of our Chinese friends.

The Naval Chief said that he was satisfied to know about the success of the Karachi Shipyard in achieving major targets of its business plans both in shipbuilding as well as in the sugar industry.

He stated that this is yet another major step forward in achieving self reliance and augmenting export potential in the field of defence production in the maritime sector.