Nine countries begin navy exercise off Pakistan

KARACHI, Mar 6 (Reuters) Naval forces from nine countries, including the United States, China and Pakistan, began exercises off Pakistan today aimed at consolidating efforts in the war against terrorism, a Pakistani official said.

Forces from Britain, Turkey, Italy, France, Malaysia and Bangladesh are also taking part in the week-long ''Aman'' (peace) exercise in the Arabian Sea.

''These countries are taking part with their forces and ships while we also have observers from 24 countries,'' said Pakistani navy spokesman Lieutenant Commander Salman Ali.

Ali said the exercise was aimed at increasing cooperation and consolidating security gains.

''We also want to project Pakistan as a country contributing to peace and stability in the region,'' he said.

Pakistan's old rival India has not been invited to take part.

REUTERS SP RAI2214