KARACHI: Speakers at a symposium highlighted Pakistan’s immense potential to become a leader in the field of sustainable ship recycling, emphasising the importance of adhering to international standards and regulations to ensure the safety of workers and environment.

They were addressing an international symposium on the “Capacity Building for Safe and Environmentally Sound Ship Recycling in Pakistan”, organised by the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) in Karachi.

The event brought together key stakeholders from various maritime sectors to address critical challenges being faced by the industry and pave the way for the revival of a sustainable future in ship recycling.

The event was participated by representatives from the federal and Balochistan governments, Pakistan Stock Brokers Association, Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works Ltd, Karachi Port Trust, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, GEMS, Gadani Ship Breaking Labour Union and National Trade Union Federation.

International experts like Prof Raphael Baumler from the World Maritime University and Mrs Rabia Razzaque from the UN-ILO provided valuable insights and global perspectives on the subject.

The event concluded with the closing remarks from Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed, president of NIMA, emphasising the paramount importance of safety and environmental stewardship in ship recycling practices.

Chief guest Senator Nisar Ahmed Khuhro emphasised the need for the revival of this industry and the much-needed concerted efforts of all the stakeholders.

He urged the stakeholders to collaborate on a comprehensive programme, making it a realisation of the new era for Pakistan’s maritime sector characterised by both economic growth, workers’ safety and environmental responsibility.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2024