Pakistan – World Maritime Day, a significant reminder of maritime safety, security, and
environmental conservation, is marked annually, urging nations to work together for
sustainable maritime practices. Under the aegis of the International Maritime
Organization (IMO), this year holds special significance as we commemorate the 50th
anniversary of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships
(MARPOL). Accordingly, this year’s theme ‘MARPOL at 50 – Our Commitment Goes On’
is intended to pay tribute to our efforts under IMO’s long history of protecting the
environment from pollution through the impact of shipping via a robust regulatory
framework and emphasis on its ongoing commitment to prevention of our oceans from
pollution.
MARPOL’s legacy stretches over five decades, symbolizing our collective efforts against
marine pollution emphasizing the duty we all hold to protect the lifeblood of our planet.
As we reflect on the journey, the statistics remain alarming; marine pollution’s ripple
effects on ecosystems, economies, and livelihoods of coastal communities urge us to
take more concerted actions.
Pakistan Navy stands at the forefront to conserve the maritime environment. In
alignment with MARPOL principles, we have instituted measures to curtail emissions,
enhance energy efficiency and, in earnest, implement pollution prevention strategies.
Our ongoing efforts against marine pollution bear testimony to our unwavering
commitment.
On this World Maritime Day, as we look back to our shared maritime heritage and
achievements, let us also look ahead with determination, commitment, and resolve to
align our national objectives with the ongoing global shift towards sustainable and green
marine practices. I urge all the stakeholders to embrace these evolving paradigms.
Particularly, I reiterate Pakistan Navy’s resolve to ensure maritime safety and uphold
environmental mandates.
In this stride, let us recommit to the principles of maritime safety and marine
conservation and reaffirm our solemn pledge to the maritime world that ‘our commitment
goes on’, both in spirit and in action. I look forward to a profound and cumulative
response by all stakeholders.
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