KARACHI, April 20: The Secretary, Ministry of Ports and Shipping, Fazal-ur-Rehman on Wednesday called upon D-8 countries to join hands against the post 9/11 challenges to trade, commerce and shipping sector, which are now being handled under different parameters.

He said that the fast approaching trend of globalization has induced a cut-throat competition in the spheres of production and transportation of goods. “Survival of the fittest is the call of the day,” he maintained.

Addressing the inaugural session of a two-day seminar on ‘Prospects of Shipping in D-8 Group’ organized by the director general (technical wing), ministry of ports and shipping in collaboration with ministry of foreign affairs, he stressed upon the need to improve and continue to improve productivity and services in terms of quality and economy.

Fazal-ur-Rehman said that transport industry particularly the shipping sector has to face great challenges from various directions. On one hand the modern fleets of the developed world supersede us in quality; on the other the out-dated ships flying flag of convenience prove to be more economical to certain shipping quarters.

The Secretary suggested to the Islamic countries in general and D-8 countries in particular to find a way out through hard work and determination.

He expressed the hope that the seminar would prove to be a milestone in addressing the existing shipping issues in consultation with D-8 group and provide business cooperation with each other.

Mr Rehman said that great progress had been made in maritime training sector.