ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy handed over Command of multinational Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150) to Royal Canadian Navy on 8th Dec 16, at an impressive change of command ceremony held at HQs US NAVCENT, Bahrain.
Commodore Bilal Abdul Nasir SI(M) handed over command of CTF-150 to Commodore Haydn Edmondson. Several high-rankingcivilian and military officials from coalition countries graced the occasion. Pakistani Ambassador to Bahrain, H.E. MRJaved Malik and H.E. MR Thomas Macdonald, Canadian Ambassador to Bahrain were also present as the Distinguished Guests.
At the start of the ceremony, Commodore Bilal Abdul Nasir SI(M), outgoing CTF-150 presented resume of CTF-150’s recent accomplishments in which he applauded the whole hearted support and cooperation of coalition partners, which enabled him to discharge his duties in the most professional manner. He further highlighted that relations between Pakistan Navy and coalition navies are continuously strengthening due to our focused commitments in support of Collaborative Maritime Security in the region. Outgoing CTF-150, in his remarks mentioned that since 2004, Pakistan has been providing ships and aircraft to the ever-ready coalition of capable forces with a commitment to provide security and stability in the maritime environment. It can be said with confidence that Pakistan’s continuous contribution to CMF for more than a decade has been mutually beneficial for Pakistan Navy, CMF and other partner nations. Pakistan Navy has tried to sincerely participate in entire spectrum of operations aimed at bringing peace and stability to the region. Pakistan remains stead fast, resolute and determined to take the fight against terrorism and illicit activities to its logical conclusion. While appreciating the accomplishment of Pakistan Navy, Commander US Naval Forces Vice Admiral Kevin M Donegan, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest, congratulated Pakistan Navy contingent for a job well done.
CTF-150, a multi-national coalition is one of three task forces operating within the ambit of Combined Maritime Forces (CTF-150). Its mission is to conduct Maritime Security Operations in collaboration with regional/countries and other partners to prevent exploitation of Maritime environment by those who perpetrate or enable terrorist activities. This includes disruption of maritime terrorist activities including narcotics and weapons smuggling, human trafficking, illegal charcoal and ivory trade. An officer from Royal Saudi Naval Forces was embedded in the Pakistani team during its command tenure.
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