Islamabad: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry emphasized the critical role of secure sea routes in maintaining economic stability, amid escalating regional tensions. This statement was made during a symposium titled “Pakistan’s Maritime Future: Maritime Security, Ocean Governance and Blue Economy,” organized by the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) at Bahria University.
According to Press Information Department, the event convened a diverse group of policymakers, academics, and maritime officials to delve into regional maritime challenges, the evolving maritime order, emerging technologies, ocean governance, and the potential of ports and the shipping sector to enhance national security and economic growth. Minister Chaudhry outlined ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to enhance port efficiency, expand the national merchant fleet, facilitate trade, and attract investment, including reforming port charges and auction procedures.
The Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has facilitated over 2,000 ship movements, with measures in place to support refrigerated cargo and expedite clearance processes. Chaudhry highlighted that Pakistan’s removal from the Joint War Committee’s list could significantly reduce insurance costs, potentially benefiting commercial activities valued at approximately $3 billion. Proposed investments include a $680 million steel project at Port Qasim, a maritime industrial complex worth over $1.4 billion, and a multipurpose terminal project estimated at $350 million.
The Minister also discussed government initiatives to expand the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation’s fleet, promote shrimp farming, and strengthen the fisheries value chain. A subcommittee, formed under the Prime Minister’s directive, is developing plans to boost aquaculture and shrimp production.
The symposium featured a keynote address by Ambassador Sardar Masood Khan on great-power contestation and maritime dynamics, and insights from Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal on strategic changes in the Indian Ocean region. Dr. Mustafa Ba?kara addressed the symposium online, focusing on ocean governance frameworks, while Rear Admiral (retd) Shahid Ahmed assessed the sustainability of Pakistan’s ports beyond crisis periods. The event was jointly organized by NIMA and Bahria University.