Written by : Dr Hasan Yaser Malik
Predominantly, the prominent civilizations like Circa, Indus Valley and Egypt have emerged and developed along the seas and rivers. Presently 2.4 billion people are living within 60 miles of the coast as ports and sea have always provided prudent prospects for explorers and admirals like Ibn Battuta, Zheng He and Khair-Udin Barbarossa who dominated the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean in 15th and 16th century respectively. Consequently, the domination led to enhancement of sea trade as seas were considered as a common human heritage however, during and after Second World War countries like U.S, UK, France, Spain and Italy started to build stronger navies with a view to not only consolidate on colonization but also to dominate the sea trade routes across the globe and established overseas naval bases since 1970s to control the vital choke points along sea lines of communication (SLOCs). Such extra regional emergence led to expansion of navies such as China, Japan, Australia, South Korea, India, Iran and Pakistan to strengthen the domain of Maritime Security not only by securing their lands and SLOCs but also to explore marine sources. In case of Pakistan due to its neighbouring environments Maritime Security is more pivotal for protection of its SLOCs and economy. Following the trends of enhancing global inter-dependence world navies have adopted the approach to conduct joint naval drills with a view to share new professional techniques of Maritime domain and to enhance diplomatic understanding.Pakistan being a conscientious nation is committed to its resolve of peaceful co-existence and is determined for superior regional harmony and cooperation thus Pakistan is contributing as part of UN Peace Enforcing and Peace Keeping Missions. Proudly; Pakistan Navy has been entrusted with command of Maritime Task Force 150 and 151 and has participated in various bilateral and multilateral exercises. Pakistan took initiative by conducting Multilateral Biennial Exercise AMAN 2007 with a view to reveal its obligations to peace, contribute towards regional Maritime Security and enhance interoperability between regional and extra regional navies, particularly against asymmetric threats. Ever increasing numbers of participants have made AMAN International Naval Event with its 9th episode planned in February 2025. Considering the geo-political maneuver place of Pakistan, significance of Gwadar Port, CPEC and the professional credentials of Pakistan Navy even Blue Water navies are keen for regularly participation. During first AMAN Exercise in 2007; 28 countries participated and in 2023; overall 50 countries participated. For AMAN-2025, it is expected that over 50 countries, numerous international observers, and multiple warships will participate, showcasing Pakistan Navy’s growing influence in fostering maritime peace and cooperation. Exercise is designed to provide firstly common forum for information sharing, mutual understanding and identifying areas of common interests. Secondly, developing and practicing in response tactics, techniques and procedures against asymmetric and traditional threats during sea phase of the exercise and finally interaction with other nationals to share multicultural opportunities including Cultural Display and Food Gala. Exercise focuses on objectives to enhance interoperability with regional and extra regional navies thereby acting as a bridge between the regions and display united resolve against terrorism and crimes in the Maritime Domain. The AMAN, unlike the contemporary Malabar Exercise, is based on principles of cooperation and support instead of domination hence it includes more cooperative activities like Replenishment at Sea, Counter Piracy Demonstration, Firing of Rocket Depth Charges, Surface Firing on Killer Tomato, Fly Pasts, Counter Terrorism Demonstrations, Special Operation Forces activities, Cultural shows and Food Galas. With the addition of the first-ever AMAN Dialogue in 2025, the exercise’s scope will expand significantly. This dialogue will bring together heads of navies, coast guards, and other stakeholders to discuss critical maritime security issues, enhancing AMAN’s position as a premier forum for international maritime collaboration. The AMAN exercise has become a symbol of maritime cooperation and a platform for promoting peace, regional stability, and global collaboration. The upcoming AMAN-2025 will further solidify Pakistan Navy’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and addressing challenges in the maritime domain.With participation from over 50 countries, enhanced scope through the inaugural AMAN Dialogue, and a focus on shared challenges like piracy and maritime terrorism, AMAN-2025 demonstrates Pakistan’s resolve to unite navies for peace. AMAN promotes harmony and collaborative maritime security, making it a cornerstone of Pakistan’s efforts to maintain stability and ensure freedom of navigation in critical waterways.By fostering inclusivity and addressing both traditional and non-traditional threats, AMAN-2025 will not only strengthen regional and global maritime security but also showcase Pakistan’s pivotal role in bridging nations for mutual prosperity and peace.
