According to the PM, Pakistan’s blue economy is its next frontier.

In order to harness the marine industry’s enormous potential and turn it into a driver of inclusive growth, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday urged a concerted national effort and improved cooperation between the public and private sectors.

The prime minister announced the “blue economy” as Pakistan’s “new economic frontier” and outlined the plan to make the country a maritime powerhouse in the region during the soft launch ceremony of the second Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference (PIMEC)-2025.

The prime minister claimed that Pakistan was in a unique position to capitalize on the trillion-dollar blue economy worldwide because of its more than 1,000 kilometers of coastline and its location at the intersection of important sea routes. “Even tapping a fraction of this economy could be a real game-changer,” he stated.

“Our coastal trade already brings in nearly $7 billion a year and just imagine the potential if we fully develop this sector,” he stated. He praised the Maritime Affairs Ministry and the Pakistan Navy for their commitment and strategic vision in leading this significant endeavor.

The government’s strategy plan for the maritime industry was presented by Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on the occasion. He unveiled the “Maritime at 100” Vision and restated Pakistan’s dedication to creating a thriving blue industry.

“Maritime at 100” was a long-term strategy to make this industry a $100 billion economic force by 2047, he explained. “The oceans are vital to the economy and are more than just bodies of water. “Pakistan needs to establish itself as a maritime hub in the region,” he stated.

Commodore Ahsan Ali Khan, assistant chief of the naval staff, emphasized the seas’ enormous economic potential. He pointed out that more and more oceans were being used for aquaculture, tourism, renewable energy, and the extraction of rich commodities like minerals and hydrocarbons.

According to a news release from the Prime Minister’s Office Media Wing, the prime minister also spoke about the present regional situation with Reza Amiri Moghadam, the Iranian ambassador to Pakistan, during the PIMEC-2025.

Prime Minister Shehbaz offered Pakistan’s condolences for the loss of its innocent population and reaffirmed the country’s rejection of the recent Israeli attack against Iran.

During this period of increased tension, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Iran and its people. He described the Israeli strikes on Iran as a flagrant breach of international law and the UN Charter.

According to the press release, the prime minister stated that Pakistan backed Iran during the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting, citing his recent phone call with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian.