PM Shahbaz Sharif Emphasizes Pakistan Navy’s Role in Maritime Security and Economic Growth

PM praised the Navy’s dedication and its substantial

contributions to national security and development

at 7th National Maritime Security Workshop

Associated Press of Pakistan

Lahore: Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif reiterated that the Pakistan Navy is fully prepared to safeguard the country’s maritime borders. Speaking as the Chief Guest at the closing session of the 7th National Maritime Security Workshop (MARSEW), hosted at the Navy War College in Lahore, the PM praised the Navy’s dedication and its substantial contributions to national security and development.

Maritime Security and Blue Economy Emphasis

PM Shahbaz Sharif underscored the strategic importance of maritime security and the blue economy. He commended the Navy for its exceptional capabilities in tackling various challenges and praised the professionalism of its officers and personnel. “The blue economy holds central importance in today’s world,” he noted, highlighting the Navy’s proactive steps in harnessing maritime resources to benefit Pakistan’s economic growth.

Gwadar Port: A Pillar of Economic Prosperity

The premier highlighted Gwadar Port as a cornerstone for Pakistan’s economic future due to its strategic location and potential for regional trade and connectivity. He stressed that it is crucial to modernize facilities at Karachi Port Trust to effectively handle global trade and support the economy. “The port must be equipped with modern technology to manage loading and unloading operations efficiently,” he said.

Commitment to Counterterrorism and National Security

PM Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism across Pakistan, similar to the successes achieved in 2018. He paid tribute to the armed forces’ martyrs for their sacrifices during anti-terrorism operations. The PM also emphasized the importance of Apex Committee meetings, which aim to maintain peace and security in the country.

Strengthening Maritime and Commercial Infrastructure

Addressing the future of Pakistan’s National Shipping Corporation, PM Sharif expressed plans to revitalize it to align with commercial demands. He emphasized that real estate ventures should not be the focus of Port Trust, advocating instead for a professional, commercial approach to maximize its potential within the blue economy.

Talent and Resources for Economic Self-Reliance

The PM acknowledged Pakistan’s wealth of talent and resources, stressing the need to tap into these strengths to reduce national debt and drive sustainable development.

Workshop Overview and Recommendations

Upon his arrival at the PN War College, PM Shahbaz Sharif was received by Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff. In his welcome address, Rear Admiral Azhar Mahmood, Commandant of the Pakistan Navy War College, outlined the workshop’s agenda. During the event, a panel of participants presented recommendations for a National Maritime Policy, analyzing the maritime environment and its impact on security and economic growth while proposing strategic measures for future challenges.

The Maritime Security Workshop is an annual event organized by the Pakistan Navy to deepen understanding of maritime security, promote awareness of the blue economy, and unlock Pakistan’s maritime potential. Attendees included parliamentarians, policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, armed forces officers, and media representatives, contributing to a broad dialogue on the country’s maritime strategy.

Keywords

Pakistan Navy, National Maritime Security Workshop, PM Shahbaz Sharif, blue economy, Gwadar Port, Karachi Port Trust, maritime security, economic development, Apex Committee, National Shipping Corporation, maritime policy, Pakistan economic strategy.