Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs inaugurated the International Maritime Sustainability Exhibition and Conference (IMSEC) 2024 today in Karachi. This conference serves as a crucial platform for advancing Pakistan’s maritime economy. The event was officially opened by the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco. Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, attended as the guest of honor. Guests included Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Maritime Affairs Secretary Syed Zafar Ali Shah, and the chairpersons of Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Port Qasim.
Several other high-ranking officials also graced the event with their presence. IMSEC 2024 aims to boost Pakistan’s maritime economy by promoting global and regional partnerships and encouraging investment in this vital sector. During the ceremony, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has highlighted the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems, addressing the pressing issues of marine pollution and climate change. “We are dedicated to preserving our ocean resources for future generations by reducing the impact of human activities on marine environments and strengthening the resilience of our coastal areas,” he said. Murad Shah emphasized Pakistan’s strategic geographical position as a critical gateway linking Central Asia and the Middle East to the world. This unique location gives Pakistan a vital role in global maritime trade, and the country is committed to maximizing its potential to enhance regional and international commerce. Discussing the nation’s progress, Shah said that Pakistan has made considerable advancements in developing its port infrastructure. Ports such as Gwadar, Karachi, and Port Qasim have become pillars of the maritime industry, supporting regional and international trade. These ports are evolving into key hubs for global commerce, enabling Pakistan to meet the growing demands of maritime trade.
Touching upon compliance with international maritime standards, the Chief Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s full commitment to the highest guidelines set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). “We understand the importance of these regulations and are determined to maintain strict compliance to ensure safe and secure shipping operations in our waters,” Shah stated. He also highlighted the federal government’s efforts to bolster maritime security. Pakistan, Shah said, is actively involved in combating piracy and other maritime threats, ensuring the safe passage of vessels through its waters. “Pakistan provides a secure and stable maritime environment, contributing to global efforts to ensure safe passage for all.” Shah noted that the government is taking significant steps to promote a sustainable blue economy. “We are dedicated to responsibly managing our marine resources, fostering sustainable fishing practices, and ensuring that the development of our maritime sector aligns with environmental sustainability.”
The Chief Minister underscored Pakistan’s focus on protecting marine ecosystems, especially in the face of marine pollution and climate change. He reiterated the country’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of human activity on the oceans and enhancing the resilience of its coastal areas. “Our efforts are aimed at preserving ocean resources for future generations,” he said. Secretary-General Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco praised Pakistan’s dedication to maritime sustainability. He acknowledged the Ministry of Maritime Affairs’ efforts to identify new areas of cooperation and encouraged Pakistan to continue playing an active role in global maritime initiatives.
“The IMO shares Pakistan’s commitment to sustainability,” Dominguez stated, stressing the need for cross-border protection, reducing pollution from ships, and tackling plastic waste. He also highlighted the importance of adopting green maritime corridors and alternative fuels like methanol. Recognizing the challenges facing Pakistan’s maritime industry, including a shortage of qualified seafarers, Dominguez pointed out the immense potential for growth in the sector.
“With 90 percent of trade passing through the sea, there are countless opportunities for development and innovation,” he said, urging Pakistan to focus on efficiency, sustainability, and developing a comprehensive action plan to boost maritime trade. Dominguez also commended Pakistan’s hospitality and underscored the importance of continued collaboration between Pakistan and the IMO to modernize and digitize ship recycling efforts. He concluded by encouraging the government to further strengthen its maritime economy and create new growth opportunities.
Later, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, paid a visit to the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) as part of his engagements in Pakistan. During the visit, Dominguez toured various facilities managed by the KPT, including a hospital operated under its authority. IMSEC 2024 is poised to be a key milestone in Pakistan’s maritime sector, laying the groundwork for sustainable trade, environmental protection, and international cooperation.
