Khawaja Asif emphasises importance of strong navy to make maritime trade secure

KARACHI: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif emphasised on Sunday the importance of a strong navy to make maritime trade secure.

Speaking at Aman Dialogue titled “Safe Seas, Prosperous Future” in Karachi, Asif said trade tariffs had emerged as a major challenge in a rapidly changing global economic landscape.

He stressed that ensuring the security of maritime trade was a collective responsibility, adding global economy deeply depends on maritime trade and all stakeholders must work together to protect these vital sea routes.

The minister said the Indian Ocean happens to be of great importance in terms of natural resources as well as maritime trade.

Addressing the participants, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf reiterated the importance of maritime security and the need to develop Pakistan’s blue economy.

“Aman Dialogue aims to raise awareness about threats to maritime security while fostering discussions on economic opportunities linked to our seas,” he added.