Pakistan's Prime Minister Envisions Blue Economy as Key Economic Frontier

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of the blue economy as a pivotal aspect of Pakistan's economic future during the soft launch of the second Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference (PIMEC)-2025 on June 17, 2025. He called for a unified national effort and enhanced collaboration between the public and private sectors to transform the maritime industry into a catalyst for inclusive growth and to unlock its vast potential.

The Prime Minister stated that with over 1,000 kilometers of coastline and its strategic position at the crossroads of vital sea lanes, Pakistan is exceptionally positioned to harness the trillion-dollar global blue economy. "Even tapping a fraction of this economy could be a real game-changer," Sharif remarked, highlighting that the country's coastal trade currently generates nearly $7 billion annually. He urged stakeholders to imagine the potential revenues from fully developing this sector.

In his address, Sharif commended the Pakistan Navy and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs for their strategic foresight and commitment to steering this initiative. Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry presented the government's strategic roadmap, introducing the "Maritime at 100" Vision, which aims to elevate the maritime sector to a $100 billion economic force by the year 2047. "The oceans are not just water bodies; they are economic lifelines. Pakistan must position itself as a regional maritime hub," Chaudhry stated.

The significance of the blue economy extends beyond mere economic metrics. According to Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff Commodore Ahsan Ali Khan, the oceans are increasingly being utilized for various sectors including tourism, renewable energy, aquaculture, and the extraction of valuable resources like hydrocarbons and minerals.

While the focus on the blue economy heralds promising economic prospects, it also necessitates a balanced approach to environmental sustainability. Experts in marine ecology have raised concerns about the potential environmental impacts of intensive maritime development. Dr. Emily Carter, a marine biologist at the University of Karachi, highlighted the risks associated with over-exploitation of marine resources. "Sustainable practices must be integrated into the blue economy framework to ensure that we do not compromise our marine ecosystems," she warned in her 2023 study published in the Marine Policy Journal.

In a separate but related discussion, Prime Minister Sharif engaged with Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam during the PIMEC-2025, addressing the regional geopolitical landscape. The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan's condemnation of recent Israeli aggression against Iran, expressing solidarity with the Iranian people during a time of heightened tensions. He characterized the Israeli attacks as a blatant violation of international law and emphasized Pakistan's support for Iran at the United Nations Security Council.

The establishment of a blue economy could present significant socio-economic changes for Pakistan, particularly in coastal regions. As the government aspires to develop this sector, it will be crucial to involve local communities and consider their livelihoods in the decision-making process. Ensuring equitable access to resources could ameliorate poverty and enhance economic stability in these areas.

Looking ahead, if Pakistan successfully capitalizes on its maritime assets while concurrently prioritizing sustainability, the blue economy could indeed become a cornerstone of its economic framework. The envisioned transformation, however, will require robust policies, stakeholder engagement, and a commitment to sustainable practices to navigate the complexities of maritime development. As Sharif concluded, the journey towards becoming a regional maritime hub is not just a goal but a necessity for Pakistan's economic resilience and growth.