The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) marked World Maritime Day with a seminar centred on the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunities”. The Islamabad event convened maritime experts, researchers and youth advocates to discuss practical steps for protecting and leveraging Pakistan’s coastal resources.
Speakers included Commander Anees Khan (Retd), who addressed strategic maritime priorities; Dr. Kanwar Javed Iqbal spoke on sustainable fisheries and the need to balance livelihoods with conservation; Dr. Fasiha Safdar highlighted the challenges of climate change and rising seas for coastal communities; Ms. Neelam Pari outlined concerns over marine pollution and mitigation measures; and Ms. Maham Nadeem Malik urged stronger youth engagement to drive future maritime initiatives.
Chief Guest Mr. Rab Nawaz, Senior Director WWF-Pakistan, called for collective action across government, civil society and the private sector to advance marine conservation and a resilient blue economy. Commodore Raheel Masood SI(M) (Retd), Director Projects at NIMA, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable maritime development and emphasised the need for coordinated policies to address environmental and economic challenges.
The seminar underlined the importance of World Maritime Day for Pakistan, stressing that safeguarding oceans, promoting sustainable fisheries and tackling marine pollution require urgent, collaborative action and sustained engagement from all stakeholders.
