This week, the Italian Navy’s Carrier Strike Group, featuring the aircraft carrier Cavour and the frigate Alpino, arrived in Karachi, Pakistan, for a three-day visit focused on enhancing maritime security and defense collaboration. This event marks the first visit of an Italian aircraft carrier to Pakistan.
Upon their arrival on Monday, the fleet was welcomed by senior officials from the Pakistan Navy and Italian Ambassador Marilina Armellin. The visit will include a bilateral exercise following the official reception.
A delegation led by Ambassador Armellin and Rear Admiral Stefano Barbieri met with Rear Admiral Abdul Munib, the Pakistan Fleet Commander, to discuss mutual interests such as interoperability and future cooperation. Vice Admiral Muhammad Faisal Abbasi, Karachi’s Commander, also visited the Cavour, where Captain Francesco Fagnani briefed him on the carrier’s capabilities.
In a media briefing, Italian officials commended the Pakistan Navy’s role in regional maritime security and highlighted the importance of interoperability between the two navies. A Defense Industries Exhibition, showcasing Italian defense capabilities, was also held aboard the frigate Alpino. Additionally, in September, the Italian ship Morosini visited Karachi for a bilateral exercise aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two naval forces.
