Bilawal reiterates Pakistan’s international commitments

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said Pakistan “strongly committed” to the rights and obligations of the states concerning the governance of oceans in the inauguration ceremony of Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference (PIMEC) on Friday.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Naval chief and a large number of civil, military, foreign and local delegates.

National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) organized the international maritime conference from February 10 to 12.

“The Indian Ocean is an economic reservoir of natural resources for both living and non-living,” the foreign minister highlighted.

The conference would cover the thoughts of distinguished international and national scholars on the theme 'Embracing Blue Economy: Challenges and Opportunities for Developing Countries.

“Our security and economic dependence on the sea makes it necessary for Pakistan to build international partnerships in maritime domain for developing the blue economy,” Bilawal added.

'The maiden PIMEC has showcased overwhelming interest with the participation of around 133 exhibitors, including foreign and local firms. The PIMEC will continue till February 12.

Meanwhile, the eighth Multinational Maritime Exercise AMAN-2023 also kicked off in Karachi. The flags hoisting ceremony was held at Pakistan Navy Dockyard, Karachi, to formally commence the proceedings of the exercise, according to a press release issued here. The AMAN series is being held from February 10-14, 2023.

(With input from APP)