KARACHI: Two 12-ton Bollard Pull Pusher tugs were handed over to Pakistan Navy on Tuesday.
A ceremony to this effect was held at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KSEW).
The Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Muhammad Shafiq, was the chief guest on the occasion.
In his address, he expressed appreciation for completing the project well within the given time frame and to the full satisfaction of the Pakistan Navy.
Admiral Shafiq was of the view that the construction of these crafts at the KSEW was in line with our national policy of attaining self-sufficiency in the defence production.
He said that Pakistan's geographical location and geo-strategic environment essentially warrant building of a strong and balanced Navy to defend our sea frontiers.
The Vice Chief of Naval Staff pointed out that self-reliance has been at the forefront of the Naval headquarter's policies.
And it is in this context that Pakistan Navy has been supporting and interacting closely with the local defence industries particularly the KSEW to make a steady progress towards indigenisation, he added.
Hence, apart from these pusher tugs, KSEW was entrusted with the construction of a F-22P Frigate, fast attack craft, utility ships, tugs, multi-purpose barges etc, Admiral Shafiq pointed out.
He acknowledged that the KSEW has delivered up to the expectations of the Pakistan Navy and has been a major support to the PN Fleet for new constructions as well as for the repair of ships.
Vice Chief of Naval Staff further pointed out that the KSEW deserves acclaim for its revival and unprecedented progress during testing times when the global shipping industry as a whole is on the decline.
He said that given its recent achievements, the KSEW was well- poised to manifest its potential of undertaking major shipbuilding and engineering projects for the country and also for the foreign clients to earn and save valuable foreign exchange.
The Managing Director of the KSEW, Rear Admiral Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, presented the welcome address.
He also shed light on the performance and achievements of the KSEW.
Later, the signing ceremony for the handing over of the two 12- ton Bollard Pull Pusher tugs was held.
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