RAWALPINDI
The commissioning ceremony of the second Pakistan Navy MILGEM-class ship, PNS Khaibar, was held at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard, Türkiye, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan–Türkiye defence cooperation. The President of the Republic of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), also attended the ceremony.
President Erdoğan described the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Türkiye as exemplary and rooted in shared history, values, and mutual trust. He emphasized the importance of further strengthening bilateral collaboration, particularly in the field of defence production, to meet emerging security challenges and enhance strategic self-reliance of both countries.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf acknowledged the dedication and professionalism of M/s ASFAT, Istanbul Naval Shipyard, and the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) involved in the planning, design, and construction of the Pakistan Navy MILGEM ships. He lauded the deepening defence partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye, noting that sustained bilateral engagements between the Pakistan Navy and the Turkish Naval Forces continue to significantly strengthen defence collaboration.
