Daily Times

KARACHI: Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi on Wednesday visited the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) Head Office at Karachi on the invitation of the KATI President Tariq

The visit was aimed at apprising the business community of the country’s blue economic potentials and to encourage them to play their role in development of maritime sector.

Addressing the representatives of the business community, Admiral Abbasi highlighted the role of economic security in overall security construct of the country. He emphasised that robust and strong national economy was a fundamental driver for national security.

While underscoring the strategic importance of oceans and the maritime domain for progress and prosperity of nations, the naval chief said, “Our geostrategic location, at the cross-road of world energy routes, offers us a unique opportunity to achieve economic affluence by initiating economic activities in maritime domain. Pakistan has huge maritime potentials and there is a dire need to explore and tap these resources by boosting local industry and creating opportunities of undertaking joint ventures.”

Shedding light on the importance of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the naval chief said that it would act as a catalyst to boost Pakistan’s economy.

In his address, the KATI president lauded the role and efforts of the Pakistan Navy in maritime sector. He acknowledged the Pakistan Navy’s initiatives to enhance maritime awareness in the country. He specifically praised PN’s efforts in undertaking socio-economic uplift projects, including establishment of schools/ colleges, hospitals and job opportunities for local populace in the coastal areas of Pakistan. He assured requisite participation of business community in development of country’s maritime sector.

On the occasion, the Maritime Policy and Research director also briefed the members of KATI about the role and functions of the Pakistan Navy. The presentation focused on potential and opportunities to develop national economy through maritime sector.

Published in Daily Times, August 9^th 2018.