Pakistan has huge maritime potentials and there is a dire need to explore and tap these resources by boosting local industry and creating opportunities of undertaking joint ventures, Chief of the Naval Staff (CONS) Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi said.
Speaking at a meeting of Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), he said our geostrategic location at the cross-road of world energy routes offers us a unique opportunity to achieve economic affluence by initiating economic activities in maritime domain.
He said to give a jack start to maritime economy was one of the three pillars of his command vision. "Business community has a great role to promote the maritime economy," he added. While highlighting the importance of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Naval Chief said it will act as a catalyst to boost Pakistan's economy.
He noted that there was a massive campaign to cast doubts about CPEC, but now the nation has understood that this project will prove a game changer for our future and economic strengths. There should be no doubts on the CPEC benefits, he added Naval Chief said huge reserves of Hydrocarbon have been located in Makran region. Chinese experts would soon initiate exploration, he told.
He said regarding maritime economy and hydrocarbon in our seas there is a great need of academic research and development, keeping this in view Bahria University would be transformed into a maritime university soon. He also told that for applied research in the field, a research and technology Park will be established in Karachi in near future. "Our ship breaking facilities have become outdated since along and now to expend the sector we are bringing opportunities for private sector" Naval Chief noted.
He said there was a propaganda to malign the image of Pakistan's Arm forces on the bases of baseless speculation, but the relation between the forces and the people of Pakistan never been weekend or even get harmed from it. KATI president Tariq lauded the role and efforts of Pakistan Navy in making Sea Lanes of Communication safe and defense of sea frontier.
He further acknowledged Pakistan Navy's initiatives to enhance maritime awareness in the country. He specifically praised PN efforts in undertaking socio-economic uplift projects which include establishment of schools/colleges, hospitals, job opportunities for local populace in the coastal areas of Pakistan.
He assured requisite participation of business community in development of country's maritime sector. On this occasion, Director Maritime Policy and Research briefed the members of KATI regarding the role and functions of Pakistan Navy. The presentation also focused on potential and opportunities to develop national economy through maritime sector. KATI senior vice president Salman Aslam, vice president Junaid Naqi, former presidents; Farhan-ur-Rehman, Rashid Siddiqui, Farukh Mazhar, Johar Qandhari and others were also present on the occasion.
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