On October 9, 2024, the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) in collaboration with Bahria University hosted the International Maritime Symposium 2024 (IMS-24) focused on “Realisation of Blue Economy through the Prism of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Options for Developing Countries.”
Taking place in Islamabad, Pakistan, this event gathered international laureates, diplomats, policymakers, and maritime professionals for vital discussions on sustainable practices.
Vice Admiral Ahmed Saeed HI(M) (Retd), President NIMA, welcomed the participants, setting the stage for IMS 24. The opening session, led by Chief Guest Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi NI(M), former CNS, highlighted maritime security as crucial for a flourishing blue economy, emphasizing the need for robust security measures.
The second session, with Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for PD&SI as chief guest, focused on strategic planning and policy frameworks necessary for leveraging coastal resources and promoting clean energy initiatives.
Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami HI(M), Vice Chief of Naval Staff and chief guest of the final session, urged stakeholders to prioritize sustainable ship recycling at Gadani under the Hong Kong Convention 2009.
NIMA launched six research reports, including a study on Pakistan’s ship recycling industry. The event reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the blue economy while aligning with global sustainable development goals. Vice Admiral Asif Khaliq HI(M), Rector Bahria University extended a note of thanks to the speakers and the participants.
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NIMA is a premier maritime-related think tank of Pakistan, which undertakes analysis and evaluation of National and International Maritime issues and policies in order to recommend solutions to advance the maritime interest of the country. NIMA is also focusing on spreading awareness about the importance of the maritime sector.