Secretary Ministry of Maritime Affairs Mr Ghufran Memom held a preparatory meeting with the Pakistan Regional Economic Integration Activity (PREIA) delegation at the Maritime Affairs Division today. Additional Secretary of Maritime Affairs, representatives from the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), and the DG Port and Shipping Wing Karachi office also attended the meeting.

This preparatory meeting was conducted for the June 1, 2023, conference in Karachi, and Minister of Maritime Affairs, Syed Faisal Ali Subzwari, will be the chief guest. This conference aims to identify regulatory and institutional gaps and establish actionable commitments that the government of Pakistan might announce under the Green Shipping Challenge during COP28 in 2023

The PREIA delegation briefed the Secretary about their USAID-funded project, which spans over nine years. This project aims at enhancing Pakistan’s trade competitiveness in international markets, with a significant focus on inclusive climate change and trade policy. The delegation also shared that PREIA aims to develop sustainable strategies and solutions to mitigate the environmental effects of maritime activities by considering this sector’s economic growth and resilience.

The Secretary of Maritime Affairs apprised the delegation about the ongoing efforts of the Maritime Affairs Division in promoting green shipping. It was highlighted that the PNSC has continuously supported the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), with a specific focus on “Climate action.” Furthermore, the “Green Transition” strategy for all vessels is also under consideration.

In conclusion, the Secretary of Maritime Affairs extended full cooperation and support to the PREIA delegation for future consultations and meetings to achieve sustainable growth and mitigate the environmental impact of maritime activities in Pakistan.