(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – The Chief of the Naval Staff – Pakistan Navy, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah who is on an official visit to Sri Lanka to be the Chief Guest at the Passing Out Parade held at the Naval and Maritime Academy Trincomalee, at the invitation of the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne, arrived at the Eastern Naval Command on Sunday (11). Upon his arrival, the Pakistani Naval Chief was warmly received by the Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Travis Sinniah. Thereupon, Commander of the Navy, accompanied his Pakistan counterpart for the rest of the proceedings lined up for the day.
Accordingly, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah declared open the Sailing Club of the Naval and Maritime Academy, dedicated in the memory of late Commander Shanthi Kumar Bahar who paid supreme sacrifice on 15th January 1986 during a raid on a terrorist enclave at Ichchantivu, Trincomalee. Further, the late Commander had represented Sri Lanka Navy in rowing, sailing and was awarded Navy Colours for musketry.
Befittingly, Admiral Zakaullah is also a keen yachtsman and has represented Pakistan at numerous international events, including 1984 Olympics and Asian Games of 1986 and 1990. He has won Gold medals at the Asian Games twice. He is also a recipient of President’s Award for Pride of Performance for outstanding performance in yachting.
In addition, a tree sapling was also planted by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Pakistan Navy to signify his arrival in the Eastern Naval Command. Meanwhile, the colourful Passing Out Parade is scheduled to get off the ground this evening on a majestic note.
A host of senior officers from the Naval Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command and sailors were also present on this occasion.