Maritime Ministry Embarks on Fleet Modernization Initiative

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has commenced a significant program focused on the expansion and modernization of the national shipping fleet. This initiative is intended to bolster maritime infrastructure and diminish reliance on foreign-owned vessels.

Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, the maritime minister, presided over the agreement signing ceremony and stated that the project aims to curtail sea freight expenses and preserve foreign exchange reserves. It also seeks to promote environmentally conscious maritime practices by reinforcing a more ecologically sound and highly efficient domestic fleet.

Junaid mentioned that Pakistan intends to elevate its shipping capabilities by 600% in the upcoming three years, with specific emphasis on incorporating environmentally friendly technologies and energy-efficient vessels into the state-owned fleet, according to an official announcement.

PNSC Partners with Chinese Firm

The Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and the Port Qasim Authority (PQA) have both formalized separate agreements with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC). These agreements pledge monetary support for the fleet augmentation strategy.

A. Abdullah Zaki, representing KPT’s Transition Management Committee, and Rear Admiral (R) Syed Moazzam Ilyas HI(M), Chairman of PQA, signed the agreements with PNSC CEO Syed Jarar Haider Kazmi.

The statement indicates that these accords were completed shortly after a high-level policy session, chaired by Junaid Chaudhry. During this session, maritime industry participants consented to synchronize fleet modernization efforts with ecological sustainability and the country’s climate objectives, as defined by the prime minister’s office.

Executives from KPT and PQA have underscored that modernizing the fleet will not only preserve foreign currency and improve trade links but also considerably decrease the ecological footprint of maritime freight. This will be achieved by reducing fuel usage and enabling adherence to global emission benchmarks.

Commitment to Modernization

“This undertaking demonstrates our wider objective to overhaul the maritime sector, enhance functional effectiveness, and introduce cutting-edge technologies across all institutions,” Junaid stated. He further affirmed the government’s dedication to upholding transparency and ensuring decisions are made on merit.