KARACHI, Pakistan – The Combined Maritime Forces, “has a proven model of collaboration” for effective maritime security, according to CMF’s deputy commander in his remarks at the inaugural AMAN Dialogue, held at the Pakistan Naval Academy here, Feb. 10.
Royal Navy Commodore Ben Aldous told the assembled group of senior naval leaders from dozens of countries that both traditional and non-traditional challenges in the maritime domain threaten not just regional security but the stability of global commerce as a whole.
“The challenges faced by the region are vast and complex. From strategic competition, to piracy, to narcotics trafficking, environmental degradation, and the rise of cyber and technological threats. However, these challenges also present an unprecedented opportunity
for collective action and international cooperation,” Aldous said.
Aldous emphasized CMF’s unique strength as a coalition of willing nations, united by shared
goals and a common commitment to regional maritime security.
“What CMF provides is the framework through which like-minded nations can work together
to uphold the rules-based international order. CMF has a proven model of collaboration,” he
said.
“We have shown that effective maritime security is achievable when nations work together
toward common goals. By continuing to build partnerships, share intelligence, conduct joint
operations, and address both security and environmental concerns, the CMF can continue to
play a vital role in ensuring the security, stability, and sustainability of the region,” Aldous
said.
Organized by Pakistan’s National Institute of Maritime Affairs, the AMAN Dialogue brought
together senior naval leaders and maritime experts from around the world to discuss the
evolving maritime security challenges and explore key opportunities for collaboration. The
AMAN Dialogue was held Feb. 9-10 and was part of the wider multinational AMAN Exercise 25, which occurred Feb. 7-11 ashore and in the waters off Karachi.
Combined Maritime Forces is a 46-nation naval partnership upholding the international rules-based order by promoting security and stability across 3.2 million square miles of water encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

