Italian Carrier Strike Group Makes Historic Visit to Karachi

This visit marks a significant milestone as

it is the first operational campaign

for Italy in the Indo-Pacific region

Sahir Baloch

Karachi: The Italian Carrier Strike Group (ICSG), featuring the aircraft carrier Cavour and the frigate Alpino, made its inaugural operational visit to Karachi from October 14 to 16, 2024. This visit marks a significant milestone as it is the first operational campaign for Italy in the Indo-Pacific region.

Welcoming Ceremony at Karachi Harbour

Ambassador H.E. Marilina Armellin warmly welcomed Commander of the ICSG, Commodore Giancarlo Ciappina, and the crew of ITS Cavour and ITS Alpino. Rear Admiral Select Stefano Barbieri also joined the welcome ceremony, along with Mr. Danilo Giurdanella, Consul General of Italy in Karachi, Italian Defence Attaché Col. Enrico Rosa, and officials from the Pakistan Naval Authorities.

Defence Industry Forum Aims to Enhance Cooperation

On the afternoon of October 15, the ICSG hosted a ‘Defence Industry Forum’ aboard ITS Alpino. This event, organized by the Secretariat General of Defence and the National Armaments Directorate in collaboration with the Federation of Italian Companies for Aerospace, Defence and Security (AIAD), aimed to deepen dialogue between the Italian and Pakistani defence industries, enhancing ongoing cooperation between the two nations.

Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Ties

The ICSG’s visit signifies Italy’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan. Ambassador Armellin and Rear Admiral Barbieri conducted high-level meetings with the Pakistan Navy, engaging with the Commander Pakistan Fleet (COMPAK) and Commander Karachi (COMKAR). They emphasized that Italy’s commitment extends beyond military cooperation to include diplomatic, economic, and technological collaboration.

Media Briefing and Reception on Board

Ambassador Armellin and Commodore Ciappina held a media briefing with Pakistani journalists and representatives from the Pakistan Navy. Later that evening, a reception on the aircraft carrier featured Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, as the chief guest. The event was attended by government dignitaries, foreign diplomats, officials from the Pakistan Armed Forces, and prominent members of the Pakistani business community.

Promoting Maritime Security and Cultural Cooperation

The mooring of the ICSG at Karachi port underscores Italy’s increasing naval engagement in the Indo-Pacific and the strengthening of bilateral relations with Pakistan. Both nations have been working together to promote international cooperation and safeguard maritime security in the region, aiming for lasting peace.

Visit to Karachi Shipyard and Future Collaborations

Ambassador Armellin, along with Rear Admiral Barbieri, visited Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works, where they met with Managing Director Rear Admiral Salman Ilyas to discuss mutual interests and potential future cooperation. Representatives from Italian defence industry leaders, including LEONARDO, Elettronica, MBDA, and Fincantieri, also participated in the discussions.

Cultural Exchange and Infrastructure Development

Before departing for Islamabad, Ambassador Armellin paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Minister of Sindh to discuss university cooperation in Karachi and promote Italian language and culture. They explored potential collaboration with Italian companies in infrastructure and development projects for Sindh.

Invitation for AMAN 2025 Multilateral Exercises

The Pakistan Navy has invited the Commanding Officer of ICSG to participate in the upcoming AMAN 2025 Multilateral Exercises, which will be hosted by the Pakistan Navy in February 2025. This invitation reflects the ongoing commitment to enhancing military cooperation between Italy and Pakistan.