Blue economy potential takes centre stage at Pakistan Navy's Maritime Workshop

LAHORE (Dunya News) – The eighth edition of the Maritime Security Workshop (MARSEW-8) has concluded at the Pakistan Navy War College in Lahore, drawing attention to the country’s growing focus on ocean-based economic development and regional maritime strategy.

Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani attended the closing ceremony as chief guest, underscoring the significance of Pakistan’s maritime domain in shaping national prosperity and security. His presence highlighted the workshop’s aim of strengthening institutional understanding of maritime affairs and the geopolitical environment of the wider Indian Ocean.

Gilani emphasised the vast potential of Pakistan’s blue economy, noting that the nation’s maritime resources represent a key avenue for sustainable growth. He also highlighted the strategic value of the seas and lauded the Pakistan Navy for its active role in safeguarding the country’s maritime frontiers. According to him, increasing national engagement with the ocean economy is essential for both economic resilience and long-term development.

Maritime capacity

The chairman stressed the urgent need to expand Pakistan’s shipping and fishing capacity, describing these sectors as critical pillars for economic uplift. Enhancing national tonnage and modernising the fishing industry, he noted, would directly strengthen the country’s marine-based economic output.

8th Maritime Security Workshop concluded at PN War College, Lahore. Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani graced the ceremony as CG. He emphasized Pakistan’s Blue Economy potential, the strategic value of oceans and lauded PN’s role in safeguarding maritime frontiers. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/RqKZuh1hft

— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) December 12, 2025

Earlier in the day, Gilani was received by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf upon his arrival at the college. The naval chief expressed appreciation for the Senate chairman’s support for initiatives aimed at advancing maritime awareness nationwide.

MARSEW

MARSEW, held annually by the Pakistan Navy, is designed to deepen participants’ grasp of maritime security, the dynamics of the Indian Ocean region and the challenges emerging from evolving geopolitical trends. The workshop brings together policymakers, academics, government officials and professionals from various sectors to examine Pakistan’s strategic options in a maritime environment marked by rapid change.

The event also reviewed regional maritime developments, including trade routes, security risks and the opportunities arising from Pakistan’s coastal and offshore assets. Participants were briefed on the Navy’s efforts to secure national waters, protect sea lines of communication and support economic initiatives connected to the ocean.