Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry issued a stark warning on Thursday, declaring the world’s oceans are at a “pivotal point” and require immediate international collaboration to combat the escalating threats of climate change, pollution, and overexploitation. His remarks coincided with World Maritime Day, themed “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.”
Chaudhry emphasized the critical link between healthy oceans and environmental sustainability, economic advancement, and global security. He cautioned that “our oceans are not limitless” and called for shared accountability among governments, corporations, researchers, and individuals to safeguard marine ecosystems. The minister identified plastic debris, untreated wastewater, rising sea levels, and ocean acidification as primary dangers to marine life and coastal populations.
Highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to international maritime and climate accords, Chaudhry showcased ongoing mangrove rehabilitation and wetland preservation initiatives. He also lauded technological progress in maritime logistics, digital surveillance, and renewable ocean energy as crucial for a “green blue economy.” Pakistan’s strategic location on the Arabian Sea presents both “opportunities and responsibilities,” requiring a delicate balance between advancement and preservation, he added.
Chaudhry advocated for intensified regional partnerships, scientific exploration, and public education campaigns to address maritime difficulties. He stressed the importance of inclusivity, calling for increased participation of young people, women, and local communities in the maritime sector. Deeper international cooperation, particularly within the Indo-Pacific area, is essential, he said.
The minister announced Pakistan Maritime Week, scheduled for November 1-7, 2025, as a platform to display the country’s maritime prospects. He revealed ambitious endeavors, including upgrading the Gaddani Ship Recycling Yards to meet Hong Kong Convention standards, establishing an Artificial Intelligence Maritime Secretariat (AIMS), and implementing digital seaport systems.
Pakistan’s National Shipping Corporation’s fleet will expand to 30 ships within a year, along with the introduction of maritime business incubators, the nation’s first solar-powered fishing vessel, and advanced pollution monitoring systems at Karachi Port, Chaudhry stated. Scientific expeditions within the Exclusive Economic Zone are planned, alongside the development of Gwadar Port and Free Zone in accordance with International Maritime Organization guidelines. Finally, the minister acknowledged the contributions of seafarers, fishermen, scientists, environmentalists, port operators, and maritime workers, recognizing their efforts as embodying the essence of World Maritime Day.