Blue economy policy will give new life to shipping sector: Imran Khan.

LAHORE (15-Aug-2020) Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that Blue Economy policy will give a new lease of life to the shipping sector, Pakistan will take full advantage of its extraordinary naval capabilities, save valuable foreign exchange from the Blue Economy and sail. Employment opportunities will be created for the connected people. He said in a tweet that the Ministry of Naval Affairs was finalizing a new and dynamic "Blue Economy Policy" to revitalize the shipping sector, save valuable foreign exchange and create more jobs for sailors. Congratulations on the matter.

"We will ensure that Pakistan makes full use of its extraordinary naval capabilities," he said.

It should be noted that in a previous meeting, Prime Minister Imran Khan has also declared 2020 as the year of cobalt economy. He directed to ensure early completion of projects related to Gwadar port and said that in view of its strategic importance, this port would be a guarantor of future development and prosperity.

Ensure inter-ministerial liaison and regular consultation with all stakeholders to enable early implementation of ongoing and future projects under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs. Informing the meeting about the implementation of the proposed road-map of “Blue Economy”, the Minister for Maritime Affairs said that despite the immense potential of this sector in the country, this sector has been neglected in the past.

Given the immense potential of the Blue Economy in the country, the present government is formulating a road-map for the development of this sector, the implementation of which will create ample opportunities not only for investment but also for employment, tourism and renewable energy. In view of this, the Prime Minister has declared 2020 as the year of blue economy. Thanks to the Comprehensive Shipping Policy 2019, provision of facilities and facilities to investors, repayment of loan of Rs 4.7 billion, addition of 2 new oil tankers to the flat, Minister Under Azam's austerity drive, auction of vehicles, operation of new boat basin jetty, shortlisting of 11 companies for dry bulk cargo terminal, recovery of Rs 2.2 billion, record increase in profits of Port Qasim Authority during last two years. Cargo handling of 270 ships despite corona-virus outbreak, ongoing tree planting of one million mangrove plants in light of PM's Green Pakistan vision, completion of detailed study for Port Qasim Authority master plan, construction of new terminals, rehabilitation of infrastructure Participants were also briefed on the progress of the proposed projects.