The nine days naval exercises, named Sea Guardians-3, encompass a spectrum of maritime operations, such as training courses including formation maneuvering, VBSS (visit, board, search and seizure), helicopter cross-deck landing, joint search and rescue, joint anti-submarine, plus professional exchanges and meetings.
With both countries boasting robust naval capabilities, the joint drills aim to enhance interoperability and strengthen the potential to respond effectively to shared maritime challenges. This is the third time for China and Pakistan to hold such exercise.
A large Chinese flotilla arrived in Pakistan's port city of Karachi on Saturday, comprising naval ships, frontline destroyers, helicopters, fighter jets, a submarine, and a submarine rescue ship along with the Marines Corps detachment.
The Pakistani and Chinese navies will conduct advanced-level joint drills and naval maneuvers in the Arabian Sea till 17 November.
Promoting Trust and Unity
A retired high ranking officer in the Pakistan Armed Forces, Khalid Mahmood, told Sputnik India that these military drills hold a significant promise for regional peace.
"This strategic partnership not only showcases the growing camaraderie between China and Pakistan but also holds significant promise for regional peace and stability," Mahmood said.
He also stressed that the timing of these exercises is noteworthy, as the international community grapples with evolving geopolitical dynamics and the joint display of naval prowess sends a clear message of unity and cooperation.
"Such military drills are challenging the narrative of maritime tensions that often characterize geopolitical relationships," the officer explained.
Meanwhile, Admiral Li Xiaoyan of the Chinese Navy during a press conference highlighted the significance of the exercises, saying that Sea Guardians-3 is not just about military cooperation but also aims to promote mutual understanding and trust.
Fostering Innovation and Expertise
According to Mahmood, the joint drills between China and Pakistan provide a counter-narrative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in maintaining stability rather than exacerbating tensions.
Also beyond the geopolitical implications, the joint naval drills hold tangible professional benefits for both the nation’s navy personnel.
"These naval exercises provide with the exchange of expertise and best practices that can contribute to the professional development of naval personnel on both sides. Additionally, joint operations enable the testing and refinement of naval technologies, fostering innovation and modernization," Mahmood told Sputnik India.
Hence, the Sea Guardians-3 initiative is a testament to the deepening strategic ties between China and Pakistan.
Tackling Terrorism and Protecting CPEC
The collaboration extends beyond the maritime domain, encompassing economic partnerships, infrastructure development, and cultural exchanges. This multidimensional relationship strengthens the foundation for lasting regional stability.
Pakistan Navy said in a statement that the aim of the drills is to share professional experiences on various threats in the Indian Ocean region.
"The exercise is a reflection of strong bilateral military cooperation between the two navies, and will foster greater bilateral cooperation," the navy's statement read.
Meanwhile, according to a senior Chinese navy captain Qi Jian the main purpose of the exercise is to enhance bilateral security cooperation, to develop a Pak-China multidimensional strategic partnership that aims at bolstering the capabilities of both the navies, and to tackle terrorism and crime at sea.
Jian added that Sea Guardians-3 will serve to protect the maritime environment and defense of the multi-billion dollars project China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Hence, as the joint naval drills unfold, the international community watches with keen interest. The success of these exercises not only bodes well for China and Pakistan but also sets a positive precedent for other nations seeking collaborative solutions to complex geopolitical challenges.