ISTANBUL 

Pakistan on Friday launched its third Hangor-class submarine in central China.

The ceremony in Wuhan, the capital of the Chinese province of Hubei, saw the launch of submarine PNS/M MANGRO, according to a statement from the Pakistani Navy.

Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, who was present at the ceremony, emphasized the importance of "maritime security amid the region's current geostrategic dynamics" in his address.

"The Pakistan Navy remains fully committed to defending national interests while fostering a secure and cooperative maritime environment," he said.

He also emphasized the initiative's significance in adding a "fresh dimension to the enduring, time-honored partnership between Pakistan and China."

In 2015, the Pakistani government signed an agreement with the China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company to acquire eight HANGOR-class submarines.

The contract calls for four submarines to be built in China, with the remaining four to be built in Pakistan under the Transfer of Technology program.

Hangor-class submarines are the export model for China's Type 039B Yuan-class.

The submarines are planned to be 76 meters (249 feet) long and have a displacement of 2,800 tons.