KARACHI: Members of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Defence visited Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) on Tuesday here in Karachi. The delegation was led by committee’s chairman Shaikh Rohail Asghar who was welcomed by PMSA Director General Rear Admiral Zaka-ur-Rehman.
The committee was informed that PMSA came into existence in 1987 and is the sole Maritime Law Enforcement Agency of Pakistan, mandated to enforce national and international laws, agreements and conventions in all the Maritime Zones of Pakistan. It was highlighted that the agency is equipped with numerous potent sea-going platforms as well as aircraft. PMSA undertakes diverse and effective operations at High Seas as well as Internal Waters of Pakistan, the committee was informed.
During the visit, the members of National Assembly were briefed in detail about capabilities of PMSA, along with a resume of major search and rescue, anti-poaching, counter-narcotics and anti-smuggling operations undertaken in the recent past.
They were also briefed about PMSA’s capability enhancement plans which include the ongoing induction of new ships, fast boats, infrastructure development and future plans of induction of aircraft to augment PMSA’s search and rescue capability.
The committee was also taken to sea onboard PMSA’s recently-inducted MPV (Maritime Patrol Vessel), PMSS HINGOL, witnessed various operational activities and interacted with Officers and men onboard.
The committee members appreciated the dedication and professionalism with which PMSA is discharging its duties and responsibilities, despite numerous challenges and resources constraints. The committee acknowledged that the current challenges require strengthening of Pakistan’s Maritime Sector and the need for providing safe and congenial maritime environment.
The committee also assured PMSA of their all-out support in its endeavours and development programs to enable PMSA to adequately play its part to protect Pakistan’s maritime and economic interests.