PM reaffirms support to Iran
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed Pakistan's support for Iran amid its ongoing conflict with Israel, denouncing Israeli military actions and expressing condolences over civilian casualties. During a meeting with Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam, held on the sidelines of the Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference (PIMEC), PM Sharif said Pakistan stood in solidarity with the Iranian people during a time of heightened regional tensions.
He referred to his recent phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, adding that Pakistan had supported Iran's position at a United Nations Security Council session. 'The Israeli attacks constitute a violation of the UN Charter and international law,' he said.
Earlier, at the soft launch of PIMEC 2025, PM Sharif described the blue economy as Pakistan's new economic frontier and called for a national effort to unlock its potential. He outlined a vision to transform the country into a regional maritime hub, citing Pakistan's 1,000-kilometre coastline and strategic position along major global trade routes.
'Now is the time for Pakistan to lead,' he said, urging public-private collaboration to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.
The prime minister commended the Pakistan Navy, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, and the event organisers for their efforts, and acknowledged the leadership of Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.
Sharif highlighted the Navy's role in maintaining national security and regional stability, noting that multilateral initiatives such as the AMAN Exercise – which brings together more than 50 countries – reflect Pakistan's commitment to international maritime cooperation. He said Pakistan's coastal trade currently generates around $7 billion annually but has potential for much greater returns. Drawing inspiration from Japan's maritime success, he emphasised the need for strategic investment, open competition, and innovation.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry presented the government's long-term maritime development framework, the 'Maritime at 100' Vision, which aims to build a $100 billion industry by 2047 – Pakistan's centenary.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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