PM lauds inclusion of Chinese frigate in Pakistan Navy
By Fatima Raza 'Pakistan Times' Special Correspondent

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Monday welcomed the inclusion of a new Chinese frigate into the fleet of Pakistan Navy.

He said that this is yet another milestone in the glorious history of Pakistan-China friendship and strategic partnership.

Appreciating the close collaboration of Pakistan Navy with the Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, Shanghai in manufacturing the first F-22 type frigate, he said that the induction of this frigate would auger well for the maritime defence of the country.

He said that it is a momentous occasion towards the modernization of Pakistan Navy and in strengthening its capabilities to monitor its territorial waters.

It may be mentioned that the first F-22 type Frigate given to Pakistan will be equipped with the state of the art weapon and sensor systems and will carry Z9EC helicopters which are also being manufactured in China.

The project includes complete transfer of technology for the construction of fourth ship of the frigate at Karachi shipyard.●