NIMA, ISSI host a seminar on maritime trade challenges and blue economy

ISLAMABAD, Oct 22 (Alliance News): The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), in partnership with the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), organized the second seminar in its Blue Economy series, focusing on the “Challenges to Maritime Trade.

The seminar explored regional connectivity initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), global and regional security concerns, technological advancements, and climate change impacts on maritime trade.

In his opening remarks, Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI(M), President of NIMA, welcomed the participants and outlined the seminar’s key themes.

Captain Naeem Sarfraz, the Guest of Honor, emphasized the importance of including subject-matter experts in policymaking. He also advocated for the adoption of an affordable, safe, and environmentally friendly inland water transport system.

Prominent scholars Dr. Anjum Sarfraz, Dr. Hassan Daud, and Dr. Maliha Zeba Khan set the stage for in-depth panel discussions. Panelists, including Ambassador Nadeem Riyaz, Dr. Shabana Fayyaz, Dr. Salma Malik, Dr. Faiz Hussain, Dr. Khurram Iqbal, and Dr. Usman Chohan, discussed the gaps in Pakistan’s maritime vision, policy, and strategy. They emphasized the need to align maritime diplomacy with global industry standards.

The panel praised the Pakistan Navy’s efforts to expand the scope of the ‘Exercise Aman’ by introducing the PIMEC initiative, which aims to integrate the world maritime industry into Pakistan’s economy.

Participants agreed that maritime trade generates significant economic activities, contributing to national power.

Vice Admiral Ahmad Tasnim HI(M), SJ & Bar (Retd), the Chief Guest, appreciated the input from all experts and recommended shifting the country’s economic focus from the north to the south to better leverage maritime opportunities.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, DG ISSI, called for long-term, inclusive strategic planning to address maritime challenges and unlock the untapped potential in Pakistan’s maritime sector.

The seminar brought together experts from academia, diplomats, practitioners, and students to discuss these vital issues.