Senate Committee on Maritime Affairs Deliberates Pakistan's Maritime Future

The Senate Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs recently convened its first meeting to address the current state and future potential of Pakistan's maritime industry. Led by Senator Faisal Vawda and attended by key officials such as Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, the meeting aimed to delve into crucial aspects of the maritime sector.

At the meeting, Federal Secretary for Maritime Affairs Syed Zafar Ali Shah delivered a comprehensive overview of maritime policies and operational activities within the ministry. He highlighted the roles and obstacles encountered by various departments under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.

A significant point of discussion centered around the management of Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Port Qasim Authority (PQA) as independent entities versus the possibility of merging them. The federal minister underscored the distinctive business model of PQA, emphasizing its competitive strengths and strategic positioning in proximity to LNG zones.

Furthermore, the meeting underscored the potential for substantial investments in Pakistan's maritime sector, with foreign investors from countries like China, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar expressing interest. The strategic advancement of Gwadar Port, including security considerations and infrastructural requirements, emerged as a key focus.

The committee also acknowledged the fisheries sector as a pivotal area for economic advancement and advocated for utilizing coastal resources for commercial, tourism, and industrial purposes. There was a unanimous plea for collaboration and solidarity among stakeholders to amplify the maritime sector's impact on Pakistan's economy.

The Senate Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs' inaugural meeting shed light on the critical aspects of Pakistan's maritime sector, emphasizing the need for strategic development, investment, and collaboration. With a focus on enhancing economic growth, leveraging coastal assets, and attracting foreign investments, the committee's discussions pave the way for a promising future for Pakistan's maritime industry.