Pakistan and China have begun a joint oceanographic research mission aimed at improving scientific understanding of the North Arabian Sea, an official statement said Tuesday, highlighting growing cooperation in marine environmental studies. The mission, described as a Pakistan-China Joint Oceanographic Cruise, is being conducted by Pakistan’s National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) in collaboration with China’s Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO), Gwadar Pro reported on Wednesday.

Pakistan Navy’s survey vessel PNS Behr Masah has been deployed to support the scientific mission. Authorities said the operation reflects efforts to improve knowledge of the marine ecosystem and coastal conditions. The program is focused on ocean behavior, environmental mapping and sustainable maritime planning in Pakistani waters.

“The Joint Oceanographic Cruise represents a significant scientific collaboration between Pakistan and China, aimed at enhanced understanding of the marine environment in Pakistani waters. The research outcomes are expected to increase awareness of coastal and offshore marine dynamics, enabling better assessment of environmental patterns and supporting informed maritime planning and policy making,” according to an official statement.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China