KARACHI: The Pakistan Navy, through its National Hydrographic Office (NHO), has facilitated a Pakistan–China Joint Oceanographic Cruise, officials said on Tuesday. According to a navy statement, hydrographic survey vessel “PNS Behr Masah” has been deployed to support the scientific mission being carried out by the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) in collaboration with China’s Second Institute of Oceanography.
The ship is equipped to conduct comprehensive oceanographic and geophysical surveys. The navy reiterated its commitment to promoting maritime awareness and supporting marine scientific research in Pakistan. The joint cruise marks a major scientific collaboration between Pakistan and China aimed at improving understanding of the marine environment in Pakistani waters.
Researchers say the findings will enhance knowledge of coastal and offshore dynamics, help assess environmental patterns, and contribute to more informed maritime planning and policymaking. According to the NIO, a signing ceremony for the “Letter of Agreement on China–Pakistan Joint Cruises for Marine Environment and Ecosystem in Pakistan Coastal Area” was held in Hangzhou, China, on December 12, 2025.
Under the agreement, the NIO and China’s Second Institute of Oceanography will conduct joint marine cruises across all four seasons to collect data on marine environments and ecosystems along Pakistan’s coastline. Senior representatives from both sides will collaborate on studies related to marine ecosystems, coastal processes, climate change, and the sustainable use of ocean resources.The initiative also includes provisions for scientific capacity building.
Pakistani researchers will be able to analyse samples in Chinese laboratories, addressing limitations caused by the lack of advanced equipment in Pakistan. In addition, Pakistani personnel will receive training in oceanographic equipment innovation and operation, onboard data collection methods, and post-cruise laboratory analysis, strengthening long-term research capabilities.
