U.S. Chief of Naval Operations Welcomes Pakistan Chief of Naval Staff to United States

Pakistan's Chief of Naval Staff Adm. Noman Bashir (center) greets U.S. naval officers during a full honors ceremony held in honor of his arrival, March 18 at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C.

March 19, 2010

Islamabad - U.S. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead welcomed Pakistan Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Adm. Noman Bashir during a ceremony, March 18 at the Washington Navy Yard, in Washington, D.C.  The official counterpart visit is designed to promote global maritime partnerships and reinforce commitments to strengthening the bonds between both navies.

Adm. Roughead expressed his gratitude for Pakistan Navy's contributions toward security in the region and for helping to forge a strong bond between the U.S. and Pakistan.

"Relationships between our navies are deeply important," said Roughead. "The United States and Pakistan have a strategic relationship, one that is based upon a common interest in peace, security, and prosperity.  We are extremely appreciative for the leadership, for the involvement of the Pakistan Navy in the peace and stability of such an important region of the world."

During the ceremony, the CNO presented Adm. Bashir with the Legion of Merit on behalf of the Secretary of Defense for his continued cooperation to the countries' mutual endeavors.

"The future of all nations are made stronger by the cooperation of all navies and Admiral Bashir is a visionary leader who understands this and will lead his navy to a glorious future," said Roughead.

Adm. Bashir is in the United States on a ten-day visit at the invitation of the U.S. Navy.  While there, he is scheduled to meet with various U.S. military and government officials to discuss opportunities for continued coordination and cooperation between the U.S. and Pakistan navies.