Japanese naval chief reaches Islamabad

Japan Maritime Self Defence Force Chief of Staff Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, accompanied by his personal staff, reached Islamabad on Friday on an official visit.Upon his arrival at the Naval Headquarters, the Chief of Staff was received by Pakistan Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Asif Sandila. A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Navy, clad in ceremonial dress, presented him the Guard of Honour. The visiting dignitary was then introduced to Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) at the Naval Headquarters.

Later, Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, called on Chief of the Naval Staff at his office, where he held a detailed discussion on professional matters with his counterpart. A comprehensive briefing on ‘Pakistan Navy’s Role in Regional Maritime Security Situation and Operational Developments’ was also given to the visiting dignitary. During the course of his stay, the admiral would also call on defence minister and the naval admin authorities at Karachi.

Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano joined Japan Maritime Self Defence Force in 1977. Besides commanding the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force, he had the privilege to hold a number of command and staff appointments including Commander Escort Flotilla 3, Commander Mine Warfare Force and Fleet Escort Force, Vice Chief of Staff, Joint Staff and Commander-in-Chief of Self Defence Fleet.

The Admiral was a graduate of US Naval War College, MSDF Staff College (Command and Staff Courses) and recipient of a masters degree in international relations from Tsukhuba University.

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