The Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, extended a warm welcome to all participants at the 7th Maritime Security Workshop (MARSEW-07).
He highlighted several key initiatives and strategic projects aimed at advancing Pakistan’s maritime sector and enhancing its economic potential, according to an official statement issued here on Thursday.
The workshop brought together distinguished Navy officials, journalists, parliamentarians, members of the business community, and academia.
It served as an important platform for strengthening regional maritime security and advancing collaboration in the maritime sector.
In his welcome address, the Minister emphasized the growing significance of Pakistan’s maritime sector and its pivotal role in shaping the country’s economic future.
He acknowledged the challenges and opportunities within the maritime domain and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and ensuring secure and sustainable seas for global trade.
The Minister underscored that Pakistan’s maritime sector, particularly through key infrastructure projects and policy reforms, is poised to contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth, job creation, and international trade connectivity.
He emphasized the recent launch of the Iran and Muscat cargo service, which is set to improve regional connectivity and further establish Pakistan’s position as a major trade hub for Afghanistan and Central Asia.
He also announced that Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) is projected to generate Rs60 billion in revenue by 2024, with the largest-ever ship procurement order of USD 300 million to strengthen Pakistan’s national fleet.
The Minister revealed that Hutchison Ports is investing USD 1 billion in the expansion of Karachi Port, and AD Ports has committed USD 330 million to enhance port infrastructure.
These investments highlight growing confidence in Pakistan’s port development and capacity to handle increasing trade volumes.
The minister also stressed the importance of Gwadar Port, which is projected to handle 60% of the government’s cargo in the coming years, further solidifying its role in Pakistan’s economic development.
In line with boosting Pakistan’s Blue Economy, the Minister announced the establishment of a Blue Economy Center in Gwadar.
This center will focus on sustainable marine resource management, promoting marine tourism, and increasing seafood exports, with a target to reach USD 500 million in seafood exports.
He also highlighted the promotion of aquaculture for export markets and a joint venture between Pakistani and Chinese companies in the seafood sector to attract foreign investment.
The Minister further discussed efforts to improve port efficiency and logistics infrastructure, including the digitization of port operations through the Port Community System and the development of a Ports Master Plan.
He emphasized the ongoing rail and road connectivity upgrades between Karachi and Gwadar, which are crucial to enhancing hinterland connectivity and supporting seamless trade.
Rs12 billion Gadani Project, aimed at creating an environmentally sound ship recycling facility, was also highlighted as part of Pakistan’s commitment to Green Shipping.
The Minister noted that the Ministry is also working on revamping maritime and port laws to streamline processes and align with international standards.
Additionally, a Ports Coordination Committee has been established to enhance operational efficiency across the country’s ports.
The Minister concluded by emphasizing the growing role of the private sector in PNSC through the dilution of government shares and the introduction of public-private partnership projects to attract investment and strengthen Pakistan’s shipping industry.
He reaffirmed that these initiatives will position Pakistan as a key player in the global maritime trade network, supporting national economic growth and fostering international collaborations.