International Exercise BARRACUDA-XII formally commences today at Headquarters Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA), Karachi. The event started with an impressive flag hoisting ceremony, followed by a wreath laying on the Shuhada monument.
The ceremony was attended by observers from 13 friendly countries, Pakistan Navy officers, and PMSA officers. Exercise BARRACUDA-XII is scheduled for January 2–4 and comprises Harbour and Sea phases.The opening brief of the exercise was held in Karachi.
The Federal Minister for Climate Change, Ahmed Irfan Aslam, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Foreign observers and delegations from relevant stakeholders also attended the brief, wherein the aims and objectives of Exercise BARRACUDA-XII were highlighted. Moreover, both national and international speakers presented scholarly papers on the response to oil spills and search and rescue at sea.The Chief Guest thanked all foreign delegates for participating in the event during his address. He added that the exercise will help crystallize our preparedness for managing maritime disasters.
Pakistan has always been and will continue to be an ardent advocate of safe and secure seas for the well-being of the region and the world.Earlier, during his welcome address, DG PMSA Rear Admiral Imtiaz Ali apprised the audience about the government of Pakistan’s endeavor to curb pollution at sea and reiterated PMSA’s resolve to fight marine pollution. He further highlighted the role of PMSA in implementing the laws on national seas. He thanked the foreign participants and national maritime stakeholders for their support.
DG PMSA Rear Admiral Imtiaz Ali also called on the foreign observers and discussed matters of mutual interest.Exercise BARRACUDA is a marine pollution response exercise conducted biennially by PMSA since 2007. It focuses on refining response mechanisms and enhancing coordination among stakeholders. The practice is a critical platform to prepare for and address potential oil spills and other marine pollution incidents.
BARRACUDA-XII will unfold as an immersive experience in the North Arabian Sea, providing a platform for participating countries to engage in scenario-based simulations and comprehensive drills starting on January 24.
The 3-day exercise, which includes the harbor and sea phases, will facilitate knowledge exchange, enhance interoperability, and solidify coordination among diverse maritime entities, thereby fortifying our global resilience against marine pollution incidents. As the world grapples with the imperative need to protect our oceans, BARRACUDA-XII stands as a testament to the power of international cooperation in combating marine pollution.
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