Key points
- Navy supports mission with survey vessel
- Study focuses on marine environment
- Four-season cruises under bilateral agreement
KARACHI: Pakistani and Chinese scientists have launched a joint oceanographic mission in Pakistani waters, aiming to study marine life and better understand the country’s coastal and offshore ecosystems.
The initiative, supported by the Pakistan Navy, marks a major step in bilateral scientific cooperation and year-round marine research.”
The Pakistan Navy, through its National Hydrographic Office (NHO), is supporting the Pakistan–China Joint Oceanographic Cruise by deploying PNS Behr Masah, a hydrographic survey vessel capable of conducting detailed oceanographic and geophysical surveys.
The research mission is being carried out by Pakistan’s National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) in collaboration with China’s Second Institute of Oceanography.
According to a navy statement issued on Tuesday, the initiative reflects Pakistan Navy’s commitment to promoting maritime awareness and facilitating marine scientific research.
The joint cruise aims to improve understanding of Pakistan’s coastal and offshore marine environment, including ocean dynamics, ecosystems and environmental patterns.
Letter of Agreement
The project follows the signing of a Letter of Agreement on China–Pakistan Joint Cruises for Marine Environment and Ecosystem in Pakistan’s coastal areas, which was concluded in Hangzhou, China, on December 12, 2025.
Under the agreement, joint marine cruises will be conducted across all four seasons to collect comprehensive environmental and ecosystem data.
The initiative will also enhance capacity building, offering Pakistani researchers access to advanced laboratory facilities in China and training in oceanographic equipment operation, data collection and post-cruise analysis.
Officials said the collaboration would support informed maritime planning, climate research and the sustainable use of ocean resources, while strengthening long-term scientific ties between Pakistan and China.
