Shamsheer-e-Bahr VIII begins in Karachi

The Pakistan Navy's flagship war game, Shamsheer-e-Bahr VIII, began in Karachi on Monday. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi graced the opening brief of the exercise as the chief guest. 

Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Faisal Rasul Lodhi received him while armed forces officers, senior officials and ministry reps attended the event.

Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (Operations) Rear Admiral Javed lqbal presented the overview of war game outlining objectives and concepts set forth for demonstration during the exercise. He highlighted that the war game will comprise participation of tri-services and ministries. 

The wargame of Pakistan Navy is held biennially to corroborate various concepts which are validated in subsequent maritime exercises prior being incorporated in naval strategy.

In his address, the naval chief said Pakistan is facing multitude of internal and external challenges which necessitate external vigilance and strong resolve. He emphasised that the unresolved Kashmir issue remains the flash point between Pakistan and India. 

Indian heavy handed policies in held Kashmir and attempt to enforce fascist control over the Valley have serious implications towards security in South Asia and the world at large 

The naval chief underscored the significance of war games in military planning process and he praised the thought-provoking presentations of force commanders, which would help in crystallising plans to enhance maritime security of Pakistan. 

He reiterated Pakistan's increasing relevance against the backdrop of CPEC, operationalisation of Gwadar port. He highlighted that merchant traffic to/from Gwadar port will increase and so will the responsibility of Pakistan Navy to ensure unhindered flow of traffic in waters. 

He stressed the economic wellbeing of Pakistan is tied with the freedom to use the seas for trade; therefore, the prosperity of our people is intrinsically linked to the security of our Sea Lines of Communication.