The National Assembly's Standing Committee on Defence Production on Monday was given a detailed presentation about Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KSEW) activities, capability, performance and progress of projects in hand. The Committee under the chairmanship of Sh Aftab Ahmed, MNA, visited the KSEW on Monday. Secretary Defence Production, Lieutenant General Shahid Iqbal (Retd) and MD KSEW Cdre Sajid Wazir Khan apprised the Standing Committee about the activities of KSEW.
Secretary Defence Production highlighted the efforts being made by KSEW to secure the orders in pipelines from KPT, Navy etc. He informed that two small tanker-cum-utility ships have been delivered to Pakistan Navy and 4th F-22P Frigate has successfully been launched on June 16. The work on the Steel Cutting of Fast Attack Missile Craft for Pakistan Navy is scheduled on July 12.
MD KSEW also briefed the house about various issues being faced by KSEW and requested the Standing Committee to help for resolving the said issues regarding implementation of government directives for the protection of the only Shipbuilding Industry etc. The Committee acknowledged the importance of Shipyard and showed their deep concern about issues hindering it function. Members of the Committee deliberated in details on the said issues highlighted by KSEW and gave suggestions to facilitate KSEW to utilise their full potential.
The Committee observed that KSEW could play a vital role in the strengthening the economy of the country by earning huge foreign exchange if provided proper patronage. Secretary Defence assured that all out efforts would be made at ministry level to support and resolve all the issues warranting action. The Chairman Standing Committee assured that all possible support would be provided to KSEW. In this regard a joint meeting of all stakeholders will be conducted under the Chairmanship of the prime minister. He appreciated the efforts made by KSEW for the improvement, development and up-gradation of the organisation to make it a profitable entrepreneur.