- Commodore Malik assumes command of the Canadian Navy.
- Incoming commander says team is ready to take on responsibility.
- The Pakistan Navy has pledged to work with the coalition to ensure peace.
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy has assumed charge of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150) for the 13th time in an impressive change of command ceremony held at the US Naval Forces Central Command Headquarters in Bahrain.
Pakistan Navy Commodore Asim Sohail Malik has taken over command from Royal Canadian Navy Captain Mathews, the Pakistan Navy announced Tuesday.
The multinational coalition of navies, CTF 150, is one of five task forces operating within the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), with the mission of promoting maritime security by countering illicit activities at sea.
“Addressing the audience, incoming CTF-150 Commander Commodore Malik assured that his team is fully prepared to efficiently assume this prestigious responsibility of contributing to maritime security and stability in the region,” the statement read.
The Commodore also commended the outgoing Task Force Commander, Captain Mathews of the Royal Canadian Navy, and his team for their steadfast commitment and commendable service in achieving CTF-150’s stated objectives.
Commodore Malik stressed that CTF-150’s area of responsibility included some of the most challenging and important international waters in the world.
He assured that his team will strive to further strengthen the efforts of this multinational task force to provide robust security in this vital maritime region.
The CTF commander also stressed that the Pakistan Navy was committed to working with coalition navies to ensure peace and stability within the Area of Responsibility.
“The Pakistan Navy has had the honour of commanding CTF-150 on twelve previous occasions. This is the 13th command, which demonstrates the trust and respect that coalition partners place in the Pakistan Navy,” the Navy said.
The change of command ceremony was attended by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Bahrain, Saqib Rauf, Canada’s Honorary Consul in Bahrain, Hatim Zubi, Commander Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), Vice Admiral George M Wikoff, Commander Royal Bahrain Naval Force, Rear Admiral Ahmed Al Binali, as well as representatives from several other navies operating with the CMF.
