Iran to join Pakistan-hosted intl. naval drills as two neighbors strengthening military ties

Iran’s top military official said the country would participate in international naval exercises that would be hosted by the Pakistani Navy and is scheduled to go underway next month.

News ID: 5829

Date: 21 January 2025 - 09:20

TABNAK, Jan 21: Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri made the remarks on Monday concerning the AMAN (Peace)-25 multinational naval drills that would take place in the Pakistani port city of Karachi from February 7 to 11.

“Iran has been invited to partake in the international drills in Pakistan, and we will participate in this event,” he said.

The event has garnered significant international attention, especially with expectations of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) of China actively participating in the drills.

Bagheri made the remarks after meeting with Pakistan's Army Chief General Asim Munir in the Pakistani capital Islamabad, to which the former has traveled at the head of a high-ranking military delegation.

The officials underlined that the countries had to pursue a serious fight against terrorism to protect sustainable security in common border areas.

Baqeri also said the nations had succeeded in enabling remarkable growth in bilateral consultations, particularly in the military and defensive sectors.

He added that “fundamental” measures had been taken to close borders so that traffic between the countries could take place only through formal crossings.

The official pointed to Pakistan’s firm determination to battle the Pakistan-based Jaish al-Zulm (Army of Brutality) terrorist group and noted that coordination in border areas and swift exchange of intelligence would help the countries conduct swift operations against terrorists.

The top Iranian general, meanwhile, welcomed the activation of Iran-Pakistan border markets, which would be a step towards ending smuggling and supporting trade activities.