Naval Chief Visits Italy, Attends Trans-Regional Seapower Symposium
— October 18, 2024
ISLAMABAD (AIA) Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, recently visited Italy to participate in the Trans-Regional Seapower Symposium (TRSS), held in Venice. During the symposium, Admiral Ashraf delivered a keynote address on “Preserving the Underwater: The Secure and Sustainable Use of the Underwater.” He also held meetings with naval leaders from various countries, according to a news release from the Pakistan Navy.
The TRSS focused on the increasing significance of the underwater environment, discussing global challenges and opportunities. It facilitated meaningful discussions within the maritime community on how best to protect underwater ecosystems and responsibly use marine resources. In his speech, Admiral Ashraf stressed the importance of preserving underwater ecosystems and ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources, which are vital for maintaining global biodiversity and economic stability. “By implementing stringent international regulations, adopting innovative technologies, and applying effective conservation strategies, we can secure a sustainable future for underwater environments, balancing both human and environmental needs,” he stated.
Admiral Ashraf also referenced the upcoming AMAN dialogue, which will coincide with the Pakistan Navy’s multinational exercise AMAN in 2025. He noted that the dialogue will offer naval and coast guard leaders from participating nations a platform to discuss maritime security issues, including the protection of underwater resources for future generations.
On the sidelines of the TRSS, Admiral Ashraf met with several naval leaders, including Admiral Sir Ben Key, First Sea Lord of the Royal Navy; Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations of the U.S. Navy; Admiral Chonlathit Navanukroh, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy; Admiral Akira Saito, Chief of Staff of the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force; Professor Andrea Margelletti, Advisor to the Ministry of Defence of Italy; and Giovanni Soccodato, Managing Director of MBDA Italy.
Admiral Ashraf later visited the Headquarters of the Secretary General of Defence of Italy, where he held discussions with Dr. Luisa Riccardi, Secretary General of Defence; Vice Admiral Giuseppe Abbamonte, Director of Naval Armament; and Vice Admiral Giacinto Ottaviani, Deputy Chief of Defence. The meetings focused on mutual interests, emerging maritime security challenges, and bilateral naval cooperation.