CPEC to help boost economic activities in region: President

F.P. Report

LAHORE: President Mamnoon Hussain has said that the bright and prosperous future of the region is linked with China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

He was addressing the concluding ceremony of Maritime Security workshop as Chief guest at Pakistan Navy War College in Lahore on Monday.

The topic for the 15-day workshop is “Safe Sea-Prosperous Pakistan”.

Mamnoon Hussain has said that Armed forces were capable of tackling any type of challenges. He said that utilisation of sea resources would not only strengthen economy but also help protect sea routes. He said, “Maritime workshop has great importance with regard to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the future of the region”.

The President said that Allah Almighty has blessed the country with countless resources and sea was one of those and he hoped that country’s sea resources would be a great source of development. He said that seas had always played a vital role in economic situation but at present their importance had increased manifold now.

Mamnoon said that keeping in view the realities of the future, it was important to determine priorities of the sector with the help of substantial study and comprehensive planning. He said that set priorities would help Pakistan in getting more benefits when international trade and naval routes would pass through the waters of Pakistan.

“In order to utilise the naval resources effectively, proper strategy should be in mind as this matter was not confined to land and sea transportation. “When the economic corridor would become operational, we need to pay attention on other important departments which include Ship Yard, Ship manufacturing industry, engineering sectors, fishing, transshipment, ports and many others.”

Mamnoon Hussain said that it was significant to ensure progress of the above mentioned departments keeping in view the stability of national economy and protection of sea boundaries.

The president appreciated the participants in the workshop for presenting healthy recommendations and hoped that relevant departments would make proper decisions in the light of these recommendations. He said that Pak Navy deserves appreciation for the efforts it made for the progress of maritime sector and he hoped that Pak Navy and its associated departments would keep rendering their services with same spirit in future as well.

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, Pakistan Navy War College Commandant Rear Admiral Moazzam were also present on the occasion.