ISLAMABAD: Admiral Naveed Ashraf assumed the role of the 23rd Chief of Naval Staff on Saturday. He took over command from outgoing CNS Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi. The formal handover was marked by Admiral Niazi presenting the traditional scroll to Vice Admiral Ashraf. The change of command took place in a ceremony held at PNS Zafar in Islamabad today.
Admiral Ashraf is the senior among three-star officers in the Pakistan Navy. Outgoing navy chief Admiral Niazi congratulated Admiral Naveed Ashraf during the event.
Reflecting on the past three years, Admiral Niazi acknowledged the global transformation due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It presented unprecedented challenges for navies worldwide in maintaining operational readiness.
He also noted the pandemic’s impact on the world economy, including Pakistan, due to widespread shutdowns.
Additionally, Admiral Niazi mentioned the internal security challenges faced by Pakistan after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan and the devastating floods of 2022. He expressed his appreciation to the naval staff and field commanders for their efforts in guiding the Pakistan Navy through these challenging times.
Who is Admiral Naveed Ashraf?
Admiral Ashraf’s extensive naval career includes commissions in the operations branch of the Navy in 1989. He holds degrees from the National Defence University, American Naval War College, and Royal College of Defence Studies.
Throughout his career, he has held various significant positions. He served as Commander of the Pakistan Fleet and Commandant of the Pakistan Naval Academy. He has also served as the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff in three different roles, overseeing operations, administration, and training and personnel.
