The AMAN (Urdu word for “peace”) exercise series, initiated in 2007 with a slogan of “Together for Peace”, has grown in scope and participation over the years. This exercise, hosted by the Pakistan Navy, is a significant multinational maritime event to enhance global maritime security. This year, the main theme of AMAN 2025 is “Secure Seas, Prosperous Future” with a range of sub-themes that underscore the critical importance of maritime security in ensuring economic stability and sustainable development. Broadly the themes are: Maritime security in the Indian Ocean, Perspectives on maritime security and cooperation, Maritime cooperation, the blue economy, and Emerging technologies- challenges and opportunities. AMAN 2025 brings together global maritime stakeholders to address the pressing security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region. With emerging threats like cyber-attacks, piracy, & impact of climate change, collaborative maritime security is more crucial than ever and this initiative will signify the global naval cooperation from Karachi to rest of the world.

In a recent interview with Arab News, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff, Pakistan Navy, emphasized the role of 9^th edition of the AMAN-25 series, in fostering maritime security and stability in the Indian Ocean. He stated, “The key objectives of AMAN are to foster regional and extra-regional cooperation to maintain good order at sea, enhance interoperability, act as a bridge between regions, share experiences, understand each other, and demonstrate a united resolve against terrorism and maritime crimes.” The primary objective of AMAN-25 is to address both traditional and non-traditional security threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). These threats include piracy, human smuggling, narco-trafficking, and the use of force by non-state actors. Additionally, the exercise aims to tackle emerging challenges such as climate change, cyber-attacks, and the degradation of marine ecosystems.

AMAN–25 will take place in Karachi from the 7th to 11th of February, 2025, and will involve more than sixty countries. The exercise is divided into two phases: the Harbour Phase which takes place from February 7th to 9th, and the Sea Phase which takes place from February 10th to 11th. The Harbour Phase consists of seminars, operational meetings, and sporting activities while the Sea Phase includes tactical movements, anti-piracy exercises, counter-terrorism activities, and live firing drills. This year’s exercise additionally includes the AMAN Dialogue scheduled from 8^th to 11^th February, which brings together navy heads, coast Guard leaders, and defense delegates from different countries. Discussions will center around regional security, maritime relations, and the disruption caused by new technologies.

The economy of any country benefits directly from the safety of the seas. A considerable part of world trade crosses the Indian Ocean Region including the Arabian Sea that borders Pakistan, which also carries a large share of the world’s energy resources and commercial goods. With AMAN-25, there is an improvement of maritime security and therefore support the seamless movement of commerce and energy resources, which strengthens the economic activity and development of countries dependent on these seas. AMAN-25 also highlights the need to manage and restoring marine biodiversity. Among the exercises there are also practical training for responsible and sustainable use of the sea and prevention of marine contamination. By promoting responsible behavior at sea, participating navies contribute to the preservation of marine ecosystems, which are vital for the health of the planet and the well-being of coastal communities. The exercise includes scenarios that test the resilience of maritime infrastructure against cyber threats, ensuring that navies are prepared to defend against digital incursions. Furthermore, discussions on climate change highlight the need for collaborative efforts to mitigate its impacts on maritime security.

Undoubtedly, AMAN-25 is much more than mere naval exercises, it is a proactive approach by the Pakistan Navy to enhance maritime security and reinforce its role as a key player in global maritime cooperation. The exercise not only addresses immediate security threats but also fosters long-term sustainability and economic prosperity through collaborative efforts. The idea behind AMAN-25 is to foster international collaboration to ensure the peace and security of sea lines of communication (SLOCs) and promote sustainable maritime practices. The Indian Ocean Region is a vital route for global trade and energy routes, and its security is paramount for economic development, and to ensure that, AMAN-25 is the best way forward.