In an impressive change of command ceremony held at the US Naval Central Command Headquarters in Bahrain, Pakistan Navy assumed the Command of Multinational Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) from Republic of Korea (RoK) Navy.
This is the 8th time that Pakistan Navy has taken over the command of this important task force responsible for counter piracy operations off the coast of Somalia and Horn of Africa under the overall ambit of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). In the backdrop of a UN Security Council resolution, Pakistan Navy joined CTF-151 in 2009 to combat piracy
Commodore Muhammad Shuaib SI (M), took over the Command from Rear Admiral Nam Dong Woo, of the RoK Navy. Vice Admiral Kevin M Donegan, Commander US Naval Force Central Command and Commander Combined Maritime Forces presided over the ceremony. A number of distinguished military and civilian dignitaries, Ambassadors of Pakistan and Republic of Korea and senior officers from other Navies forming the coalition were also present at the occasion.
Speaking on the Occasion, PN Commander Combined Task Force-151 Commodore Muhammad ShuaibSI (M) stated that the world was passing through uncertain and unpredictable times, where diverse threats confronted the international navigation at the high seas. Piracy continued to present an intricate and extraordinary threat that impacted the freedom of navigation, trade, global security and stability. Commodore Shuaib stressed that no single nation could resolve this menace, as piracy has been a common threat which could only be addressed through collaborative international efforts.
Commodore Shuaib assured that his team was fully prepared to shoulder this critical responsibility as part of Pakistan’s contribution towards the safety and security of the oceans. CCTF-151 also lauded the outgoing RoK Navy R.Adm Nam Dong Woo and reaffirmed his resolve to continue operations with same zeal and professional commitment.
Sources said Pakistan has always been forthcoming and committed in the fight against terrorism and piracy in the face of heavy odds. As a responsible state, Pakistan is playing a pivotal role for maritime security and stability in the region. The near permanent presence of Pakistan Navy units in the Area of Responsibility (AOR) has greatly helped in shaping a secure environment for freedom of navigation in the region.
