IMO chief plans Pakistan visit as maritime cooperation expands

Pakistan and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) have agreed to deepen cooperation on maritime reforms, ship recycling, blue economy development and environmental protection, as IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez expressed his intention to visit Pakistan to advance collaboration and review the country’s ongoing maritime sector initiatives.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry met with Secretary General of the IMO Arsenio Dominguez in Istanbul, in which detailed discussions were held on the ongoing reforms in the maritime sector of Pakistan, investment, blue economy and environmentally friendly measures.

Chaudhry apprised the Secretary General of the steps taken by the government to modernise ports in Pakistan, promote investment in the maritime sector and develop the blue economy. He said that the government is implementing comprehensive reforms to modernise the maritime sector, achieve sustainable development goals and promote international cooperation.

During the meeting, both sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in the areas of ship recycling, blue economy, maritime governance and environmental protection. Chaudhry also highlighted other environmentally friendly initiatives, including mangrove plantations in Pakistan to protect the coastal environment.

On this occasion, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez appreciated the ongoing reforms and recent progress in Pakistan’s maritime sector and praised the government’s efforts to promote ship recycling, blue economy and maritime governance. He also termed mangrove plantation as a positive and commendable initiative for environmental protection.

Dominguez expressed interest in visiting Pakistan and indicated his intention to visit Pakistan soon to further promote cooperation in the maritime sector and review ongoing projects.

At the end of the meeting, both sides expressed their commitment to further strengthen cooperation between Pakistan and the IMO to promote a safe, sustainable and modern maritime system and fully utilise the opportunities associated with the blue economy.