Federal minister reviews maritime performance, hosts open forum for stakeholders

KARACHI: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh chaired a performance review meeting on Saturday to assess the progress of key maritime organisations.

The meeting was attended by Federal Secretary of Maritime Affairs Zafar Ali Shah and Additional Secretary Umer Zafar Sheikh, along with senior officials from the Port Qasim Authority (PQA), Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC).

The session offered a comprehensive overview of monthly performance metrics, addressing challenges and identifying areas for improvement. Discussions focused on enhancing efficiency, boosting productivity and improving overall service delivery in the maritime sector.

The minister added the implementation of proposed recommendations and strategies aimed at driving growth and strengthening the sector’s contribution to the national economy.

Following the review meeting, the minister chaired a ‘khuli kachehri’ (open forum), providing a platform for maritime employees and industry stakeholders to express their concerns, share suggestions and propose ideas.

The interactive session fostered direct engagement between the minister and participants, creating a collaborative environment to address grievances and discuss solutions for enhancing the maritime sector.

Sheikh reassured stakeholders that their concerns would be acknowledged and addressed promptly. He stressed the importance of resolving issues in a timely and effective manner to ensure smooth operations across maritime organisations.

The ‘khuli kachehri’ was attended by representatives from various maritime organisations under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, including the chairmen of PQA and KPT and executive directors from PNSC. Former cricketers Rashid Latif and Shadab Kabir also participated, adding a unique dynamic to the forum.

Directives were issued to prioritise the resolution of issues raised during the session, reflecting the ministry’s commitment to fostering growth and improving stakeholder relations within the maritime sector.