National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) at Bahria University organized a focused talk on US – Iran Conflict Implications for regional and global security. The focused talk aimed to bring together experts from academia and policymakers to deliberate and analyze recommendations for the government and relevant stakeholders. The esteemed speaker Ambassador (R) Ali Sarwar Naqvi, Executive Director of the Center for International Strategic Studies gave an in-depth account of military/political conflict between US-Iran and its long-term consequences to the region/relevant allies.Former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral (R) Muhammad Zakaullah NI (M) graced the event as chief guest. The event provided a forum to experts for sharing their knowledge and experience. Later, a formal report based on discussion and recommendations was shared with the relevant institutions.

Ambassador Ali Sarwar Naqvi said that the US does not seek an escalation of a military conflict with Iran. He mentioned that it is applying maximum economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure to force Tehran to come at negotiating table for a revised nuclear deal, which addresses all the pitfalls regarding its uranium enrichment, regional proxy groups, and ballistic missile program, inter alia. He made a comment that Pakistan has no dispute with Iran, it does have border problems that can be managed but there is no territorial or political dispute between Iran and Pakistan. He said because of such cooperation that’s trying to achieve mediation, Iranian supreme leader mentioned in his sermons the oppression faced by the Kashmiris by the Indian government. He suggested that as for Iran’s withdrawal from the nuclear deal, Islamabad should let the European countries renegotiate its retention and play a mediating role between Tehran and other stakeholders for a devised nuclear deal if it is called upon to interfere. If not, the situation would be continued, leading to continued instability, turmoil and an on ground situation that could be dealt with the US and the international community as they desire. Otherwise, problems will continue to fester. The participants including retired military officials, Ambassadors politicians’ Member of Parliament, Academia and faculty & students of BU IR Dept. who participated in the discussion.

If not, the situation would be continued, leading to continued instability, turmoil and an on ground situation that could be dealt with the US and the international community as they desire. Otherwise, problems will continue to fester. The participants including retired military officials, Ambassadors politicians’ Member of Parliament, Academia and faculty & students of BU IR Dept. who participated in the discussion. National Institute of Maritime Affairs – NIMA at Bahria University is working to broaden the scope of Maritime Research at Bahria University Islamabad as National Think Tank. The activities and interests of NIMA are mainly focused around Maritime domain which includes Maritime Security, International Relations, Trade, Blue Economy, Ports & Shipping, Marine Environment, Conservation & Ocean Resources and Maritime Awareness.

Vice Admiral (Retd) Abdul Aleem HI(M)Director General National Institute of Maritime Affairs extended gratitude to the distinguished speakers, worthy guests and said that Bahria University has taken a lead in Maritime Sciences as well as establishment of Maritime Science & Technology Park through which new opportunities of research and innovation will be opened in this field with respect to global challenges/opportunities.

The Chief Guest Admiral (R) Muhammad Zakaullah NI (M) appreciated the efforts of NIMA to organize the focused talk and hoped that it will keep endeavoring activities under umbrella of Bahria University. Faculty, students and reps of various think tanks attended the event and have shown keen interest.