ISLAMABAD: The federal government has officially soft-launched the Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference (PIMEC) in Islamabad.
Speaking at the soft launch ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the blue economy is Pakistan’s next frontier for economic revival, calling it a potential game changer for economic growth and regional connectivity.
The Prime Minister appreciated the efforts of Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Choudhry and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf for organizing the second edition of the international maritime expo.
He said the Pakistan Navy has always remained a strong pillar of national defence, whether it was the historic 1965 Dwarka operation or the recent Indian misadventures. He praised the Navy’s professionalism and commitment.
PM Shehbaz Sharif also said that Pakistan is committed to international peace, regional stability, and global norms, which guide its maritime diplomacy. He highlighted the recent AMAN exercise, where over 60 countries participated, as a clear reflection of this commitment.
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Highlighting the blue economy’s potential, the Prime Minister said the global blue economy is worth trillions of dollars. Even a small share in it could boost Pakistan’s economy and regional trade links.
He added that the blue economy offers a wide range of opportunities—from commercial shipping, fishing, shipbuilding, and recycling to renewable energy, coastal tourism, and offshore aquaculture. He stressed the need to tap into all these areas.
PM Shehbaz also pointed out that Pakistan pays around $7 billion annually in freight charges, and there should be healthy competition between Pakistani shipping companies and foreign liners.
He urged all stakeholders—the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Pakistan Navy, and private sector—to work together, align their efforts, and take Pakistan’s maritime strength to a new level.
