Pakistan, Japan formalize arrangement for naval logistic support
ISLAMABAD, Feb 5 (APP): Pakistan and Japan have formalized logistic support arrangement for Pakistan Navy ships participating in the Operation Enduring Freedom-Maritime Interdiction Operation in the Indian Ocean. Foreign Minister of Japan, Masahiko Koumura and Pakistan Ambassador, Kamran Niaz formally signed and exchanged notes during a ceremony held at the Japanese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday. Two Japanese ships, a cruiser and an oil tanker have already left on January 25 and 26, respectively, for the Indian Ocean to participate in the counter-terrorism maritime interdiction activities.
Japanese participation in the operation is limited to activities related to provision of fuel and water to the coalition forces.
A number of countries including Pakistan and Japan are engaged in the OEF-MIO which is meant to interdict and deter the movement of terrorists, weapons or other material under international cooperation through inspection and verification of vessels sailing in the Indian Ocean.