The two-day International Maritime Sustainability Exhibition and Conference (IMSEC) successfully concluded in Karachi on Saturday, aiming to strengthen Islamabad’s global and regional maritime partnerships and attract investments, according to Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs.
This event, held from September 13-14, marked the first-ever visit to Pakistan by Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Velasco expressed optimism about Pakistan’s maritime sector, stating, “Pakistan has immense potential in the maritime industry.” He highlighted the nation’s efforts to advance its shipping, recycling, and fisheries sectors with a focus on environmental sustainability.
During his visit, Velasco reaffirmed the IMO’s commitment to providing Pakistan with technical support to enhance its maritime capabilities. He also emphasized the importance of the country’s ports, which he personally toured during his stay, and commended Pakistan’s participation in global maritime initiatives.
Admiral Faisal Abbasi, Commander of the Pakistan Fleet, praised the Pakistan Navy for maintaining piracy-free maritime boundaries and its key role in securing the Gulf of Aden, a crucial trade route. He also emphasized the Navy’s initiatives to promote the maritime economy, with the “blue economy” being the central theme of this year’s conference.
Abbasi announced that the next international maritime conference would take place in November 2025, with additional programs planned to further enhance Pakistan’s standing in the global maritime industry.
