ISLAMABAD, (DNA) – Pakistan Navy Ship ASLAT with embarked Z9EC Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) helicopter called on Her Majesty Naval Base Portsmouth, United Kingdom; third Port of its Overseas Deployment to Mediterranean & European Countries.

The ongoing overseas deployment is aimed to strengthen friendly ties with Mediterranean & European Countries through Naval Diplomacy, thus contributing towards overall foreign policy objectives of the Government. Earlier the Ship had visited Port Aqaba, (Jordan) and Algiers, (Algeria).

Upon arrival at Port, PNS ASLAT was warmly welcomed by Commander Naval Base Portsmouth, High Commissioner of Pakistan and Defence and Naval Advisor. Royal Marines Band played melodious welcoming tunes. Ship’s arrival was given wide electronic and press coverage.

PNS ASLAT Port Call to Portsmouth, United Kingdom was fully capitalized in terms of professional and social interactions with host country in general and Royal Navy in particular. PN Mission Commander, Commodore Muhammad Faisal Abbasi along with Commanding Officer PNS ASLAT held meetings with High Commissioner of UK to Pakistan, High Commissioner of Pakistan to UK, Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Assistant Chief of Staff (Ships) Navy Command HQs and Commander Naval Base, Portsmouth. Moreover, Officers and CPOs/ Sailors also visited various Royal Navy training institutions including HMS Victory, the Flag Ship of 1st Sea Lord of the Royal Navy.