IMO chief pledges support for maritime sector

International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Secretary General Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco assured Pakistan of his continuous support for ongoing projects, highlighting the country's immense potential. He praised Pakistan's dedication to maritime sustainability and acknowledged the Ministry of Maritime Affairs' efforts to explore new areas for collaboration.

Speaking on the second day of the three-day event titled "International Maritime Sustainability Exhibition & Conference (IMSEC) 2024," held in Islamabad and Karachi from Sept 12-14, Dominguez noted the event's aim to propel Pakistan's maritime economy by promoting global and regional partnerships and facilitating investments. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Secretary Maritime Affairs Syed Zafar Ali Shah, Karachi Port Trust (KPT) Chairman Syedain Raza Zaidi, and others were in attendance.

The IMO secretary general encouraged Pakistan's active participation in global maritime initiatives. "With 90% of trade passing through the sea, there are countless opportunities for growth and innovation," he said, urging the country to focus on efficiency, sustainability, and the development of a comprehensive action plan to boost maritime trade.

Dominguez stressed the need for continued collaboration between Pakistan and the IMO to modernise and digitalise ship recycling facilities. He called for strengthened efforts to grow Pakistan's maritime economy, particularly through improving training, technical development, and technological advancements.

"The IMO shares Pakistan's commitment to sustainability," he said, stressing the importance of addressing transboundary species protection, minimising pollution from ships, and reducing plastic waste. He also urged the adoption of green maritime corridors and alternative fuels such as methanol.

Despite challenges, including a shortage of qualified seafarers, Dominguez expressed confidence in Pakistan's potential for maritime expansion.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, referring to Karachi as Pakistan's gateway, called for enhanced bilateral relations and cooperation with the IMO. He emphasised Pakistan's pivotal role in global maritime trade due to its strategic location in South Asia. "Karachi's ports are essential pillars of our maritime trade, and we are committed to promoting environmental protection and strict compliance with international maritime standards," Shah added.

Shah highlighted the country's efforts to secure a sustainable maritime environment by minimising marine pollution and preserving ecosystems. He also pointed to government initiatives aimed at developing a skilled maritime workforce.

Port Qasim Authority's Rear Admiral (R) Syed Hasan Nasir HI (M) addressed the challenges of the maritime sector, including autonomous ships, fuel-saving measures, and the impact of automation on jobs. He discussed future protocols in harbour operations and the role of pilots in an increasingly automated industry.

Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) Chairman Pasand Khan Buledi highlighted the facilities at Gwadar, including the deep-sea port, tax exemptions, port security, and free zones. He detailed the progress of South Free Zone-1, which is now completed, and North Free Zone-11, which is under development. Buledi also outlined advantages such as low labour costs, zero demurrage charges, and speedy customs clearance.

Speaking to the media, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh said Pakistan is gradually emerging from financial difficulties, with exports growing, remittances increasing, and interest rates declining. He emphasised that while the government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is making every effort to revive the economy, it requires collective effort, stating, "We all have to strive together."

Regarding GPA, Shaikh mentioned that to boost trade and create job opportunities in Balochistan, the cabinet has decided to route 50% of government imports through the GPA.

On Pakistan's role in combating climate change, Shaikh noted that while Pakistan contributes little to greenhouse gas emissions, it is among the nations most severely affected. He pointed to the country's tree-planting efforts as evidence of its commitment to the fight against climate change.