Karachi: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have commended the Pakistan Navy for successfully rescuing the trapped crew members of a foreign vessel.

According to Radio Pakistan, the President, in his statement, highlighted the professional expertise and prompt response by Pakistan Navy, which ensured the protection of human lives. He emphasized that humanitarian service without discrimination in challenging circumstances is an expression of high traditions.

In his statement, the Prime Minister remarked on Pakistan Navy's swift and effective response to an emergency call from the offshore vessel MV GAUTAM in the Arabian Sea. The vessel, carrying seven crew members, six Indian and one Indonesian, encountered a technical fault while en route from Oman to India, leaving it stranded at sea.

The Prime Minister mentioned that the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) ship, Kashmir, was dispatched on a relief mission, with the Pakistan Navy providing food, medical aid, and technical assistance to the affected crew members. The rescue operation ensured the restoration of the ship's essential systems and the safety of the crew members.

Shehbaz Sharif further stated that Pakistan Navy once again demonstrated a high standard of professional skills and humanitarian compassion. He added that Pakistan is playing its role as a globally responsible state in maritime security and humanitarian responsibilities, with the Pakistan Navy always ready to deal with any kind of emergency.