Latest Insights
27 August 2024, The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) conducted an awareness & advocacy workshop related to maritime affairs for media personnel. The participants included members from print, electronic, & social media. The event was organized to acknowledge the critical role of media in nation-building as the fourth pillar of democracy. The workshop was specifically tailored to identify important linkages of maritime economy (Blue Economy) with national economy and security. President NIMA welcomed the participants and presented an overview of the geopolitics and its impact on maritime economy & regional stability. Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed graced the occasion as Chief Guest. While addressing, he underlined the important role of media in the modern era and appreciated NIMA’s efforts in creating awareness. He was of the view that responsible media is the need of hour to provide authentic information without prejudices. Other prominent speakers included Amb. Masood Khalid, Mr. Raheel Masood, Moazzam Khan, Mr. Baber Bilal Haider, Dr. Kanwar Javed Iqbal, Mr. Faisal Raza Khan, Dr. Fasiha Safdar and Barrister Nudrat Bayan Majeed. After the vote of thanks by President NIMA, the Chief Guest awarded certificates to all the participants.
16 August 2024, The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) hosted a vital in-house discussion on the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East. Led by V/Adm (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI(M) and featuring esteemed guests like General (Retd) Zubair Hayat NI(M) and Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, the discussion explored the security implications for Pakistan. The dialogue emphasized the need for Pakistan to adopt a principled yet pragmatic approach to the potential conflicts in the region. Admiral (Retd) Muhammad Zakaullah concluded the event with a note of gratitude to all participants for their insightful contributions.
15 August 2024, President Pakistan Canada Trade Association Ms. Bushra Rehman, along with Chairman Coord of FPCCI, called on President NIMA Vice Adm Ahmed Saeed. Ms. Sana Fatima, RA at NIMA, briefed about the functioning & activities of NIMA. Various areas of common interest came under discussion. It was agreed to develop greater cooperation for the promotion of Blue Economy & advancement of maritime interests of Pakistan.
Celebrating 77 years of Pakistan’s Independence, the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) marked the day with spirited events and national pride. The celebration featured insightful speeches, patriotic songs by NIMA researchers, and a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony. NIMA’s President expressed gratitude to the team and emphasized the importance of understanding our history, respecting diversity, and using social media wisely. He urged the youth to set meaningful goals and support the underprivileged as a religious and social responsibility.
NIMA-K research team visited PNSC ship on August 8th, 2024. The visit of the ship was with respect to augment the ongoing research project of green shipping by NIMA researchers.During the visit the researchers were briefed about the functioning of fuel filtration and various treatment procedures, the vessel’s yearly working and regulatory procedures being complied by the ship
On August 6, 2024, Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI(M), President of the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), met with Ms. Bushra Aman, Secretary of the National Security Division (NSD). During the meeting, Vice Admiral Saeed congratulated Ms. Aman on her new role and shared insights into NIMA’s vision and objectives, focusing on promoting the Blue Economy in Pakistan. Ms. Aman acknowledged the crucial role of think tanks in nation-building and expressed her full support for enhanced collaboration between NIMA and NSD.
On August 2, 2024, a heartfelt vote of thanks was extended to Commodore (R) Ali Abbas SI(M) by the President of NIMA and all NIMA researchers at both Karachi and Islamabad, marking the end of his remarkable seven-year tenure as Director of NIMA-K. During his directorship, Cdre (R) Ali Abbas led numerous pivotal projects, including research initiatives, national and international conferences, seminars, and flagaip reports. Under his leadership, NCMPR transitioned to NIMA with an expanded focus on the Blue Economy, and the Blue Economy Research Centre (BERC) was established at NIMA-K, with him serving as its inaugural director. The NIMA team extended their best wishes to Cdre (R) Ali Abbas for his future endeavors and looked forward to his continued contributions to NIMA’s projects.
On August 1, 2024, Rear Admiral Imtiaz Ali SI (M) T Bt & BAR, DG Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, met with President NIMA, Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI(M), at the NIMA Head Office.
The meeting included roundtable discussions that addressed non-traditional maritime security challenges facing Pakistan, such as fisheries management, smuggling, pollution, legal issues, and the current status of the fishing VMS. DG PMSA assured continued collaboration with NIMA on matters of mutual interest, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in tackling these critical issues.
On July 31, 2024, NIMA-K researchers, led by Cdr Muhammad Akhtar, had the privilege of visiting the Turkish Naval Ship TCG-Kinaliada for an in-depth orientation.
The NIMA team toured the impressive vessel and received briefings on its advanced capabilities. This visit marked the ship’s routine stop at Karachi Port from July 31 to August 1, 2024. In a gesture of goodwill, NIMA presented the ship’s commanding officer with a set of NIMA publications and the NIMA crest, and the team also extended a warm invitation to Turkish Naval personnel to join the upcoming International Maritime Conference.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) and Paradigm Shift took place on July 29, 2024, at the NIMA Head Office, this MoU was signed to establish a formal mechanism for cooperation and collaboration. This partnership aimed to expand research and academic activities, promote quality research, and synergize joint efforts related to maritime affairs in Pakistan. During the ceremony, the President of NIMA assured Paradigm Shift of NIMA’s full support in conducting research, policy analysis, and advancing Pakistan’s maritime interests. The CEO of Paradigm Shift highlighted that this MoU would significantly contribute to raising awareness among the youth of Pakistan through coordinated academic activities.
The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) successfully completed a research study titled “Gap Analysis Study on Safe & Environmentally Sound Ship Recycling (SENSREC) Program in Pakistan,” in compliance with the Hong Kong Convention (HKC) 2009 through systematic capacity-building. Sponsored by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Pakistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norway, the first edition of the report was handed over to Miss Hellene Asmussen, Political Secretary of the Royal Norwegian Embassy to Pakistan, in a simple ceremony held at the NIMA Head Office in Islamabad. The study identified current gaps and proposed actionable strategies, highlighting that the implementation of the HKC Convention would be mandatory for all shipbreaking yards by June 26, 2025.
On the concluding day of the ‘Maritime Law Summer School 2024,’ organized by Bahria University Law School in Islamabad from July 22 to 26, Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI(M), President of NIMA, served as the Chair and presented his views on “Pakistan and Maritime Dispute Resolution, Naval Perspectives, Coast Guard Operations, & Pakistan Maritime Security Agency.” This insightful event was supported by the National Institute of Maritime Affairs and the School of Law and Administration, University of Krakow, Poland.
On July 11, 2024, a delegation from the Global Radiance Group (GRG) of Companies, led by Chairman Abdul Lateef Siddiqui, visited NIMA-K to discuss the state of Pakistan’s shipping sector. The delegation held discussions with the NIMA-K team, headed by Cdre (R) Ali Abbas SI(M), on issues related to the shipping sector, including problems faced by private ship owners and national policies impacting the sector, such as taxation issues and difficulties with crew changes due to visa complications. Chairman Siddiqui expressed a keen interest in collaborating with NIMA, offering to provide insights on the ground reality and support for ongoing and future projects by providing resources from his organization as needed. The Director of NIMA-K thanked the delegation and assured that NIMA would collaborate with GRG to uplift Pakistan’s shipping sector through research and advocacy.
On July 11, 2024, a productive meeting was held between Director NIMA, Cdre Ali Abbas, and Mr. Hammad Habib, Managing Director of Rawah Farm, at NIMA-Karachi. The discussion focused on advancing sustainable aquaculture practices such as modular aquaculture systems, efficient water management, and innovative shrimp farming techniques. Key strategies and innovations were discussed to ensure environmental and economic growth. Collaborative efforts aimed to set new benchmarks in the industry. NIMA and Rawah agreed to collaborate on consultancy and training initiatives.
On June 28, 2024, the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) successfully concluded its inaugural 5-day Maritime Workshop, marking a significant step in the maritime domain. The workshop aimed to enhance understanding and foster cooperation among students, maritime professionals, researchers from various think tanks, and academia. Throughout the week, the workshop covered crucial maritime industry topics such as the Geo-strategic Environment in the Indian Ocean, Blue Economy, Climate Change and its Impacts on the Preservation of Marine Biodiversity, and Maritime Law and its Governance. On the fifth and final day, lectures on Artificial Intelligence and its applications in the maritime domain were emphasized, highlighting its enhanced operational efficiency and safety.
On June 27, 2024, the third day of the Maritime Workshop organized by the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) featured distinguished experts who shared invaluable insights on critical topics affecting the maritime sector. Dr. Uzma Naz delivered an enlightening presentation on Maritime Trade, highlighting the current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the industry. Mr. Moazzam Khan provided an in-depth analysis of Fisheries, addressing sustainable practices and the importance of conserving marine resources. Ms. Sidra Riaz spoke passionately about Global Warming and Climate Change, discussing their profound impacts on the maritime sector and the urgent need for adaptive strategies. These discussions were instrumental in broadening understanding and shaping the future of maritime affairs.
On June 26, 2024, the third day of the Maritime Workshop organized by the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), participants had the privilege of engaging with distinguished experts who shared invaluable insights on critical topics affecting the maritime sector. Dr. Uzma Naz delivered an enlightening presentation on Maritime Trade, highlighting the current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the industry. Mr. Moazzam Khan provided an in-depth analysis of Fisheries, addressing sustainable practices and the importance of conserving marine resources. Ms. Sidra Riaz spoke passionately about Global Warming and Climate Change, discussing their profound impacts on the maritime sector and the urgent need for adaptive strategies. These discussions were instrumental in broadening understanding and shaping the future of maritime affairs.
On June 25, 2024, the second day of the “5 Days Maritime Training Workshop” concluded with insightful lectures. Cdre (R) Irfan Taj SI (M) from PNSC gave his expert opinion on technologies for reducing emissions and presented case studies on successful Green Shipping initiatives. Dr. Hira Amjad from NUST discussed port management and operational strategies, challenges in harbor infrastructure and development, and innovations in port sustainability. Cdre (R) Raheel Masood SI (M) from NIMA discussed environmental and safety concerns, regulatory frameworks, and best practices in sustainable shipbreaking.
On June 24, 2024, the 5 Days Maritime Training Workshop at NIMA commenced with insightful lectures from distinguished speakers. Ambassador Masood Khalid and Mr. Kamran Hamid Hashmi, Senior Research Coordinator, provided expert perspectives on geo-strategic issues in the Indian Ocean.
On June 15, 2024, a 4-member NIMA-K research team, comprising Miss Falak Naeem, Mr. Khizar Askari, Ms. Bisma Khan, and Ms. Saba Noor, visited Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KS&EW) to discuss green and sustainable shipbuilding, repairing, and recycling practices. The team was welcomed and briefed by Deputy General Manager (QMS), Cdr (R) Farooq Ali. The meeting’s agenda was to gain insights into the current green and clean operations adopted at the shipyard in accordance with international regulations for environmental conservation. Cdr (R) Farooq elaborated on the upcoming strategies required to enhance Pakistan’s shipyard efficiency to meet international standards. The team also discussed the key challenges in implementing environment-friendly strategies and technologies, as well as future approaches for making the shipyard sustainable
On June 6, 2024, Vice Admiral (R) Ahmed Saeed HI (M), President of NIMA, called on Rear Admiral Imtiaz Ali SI (M) T Bt & BAR, DG PMSA. A detailed discussion was carried out on the nontraditional maritime security issues faced by Pakistan. The discussion also included the status of the installation of the Fishing Vessel Monitoring System and other fishing-related matters. DG PMSA assured further collaboration with NIMA regarding common interests.
On June 6, 2024 President NIMA Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI (M) met with the representative of the Ship Breaking Labor Union, Adv Haji Musharraf. The meeting was primarily focused on workers’ occupational health and safety issues under ILO provisions leading to HKC compliance.
On June 6, 2024 Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI (M), President of the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), hosted a five-member team from the Pakistan Maritime Science and Technology Park (PMSTP), led by Mr. Tanveer Hussain (Director) and Dr. Ghulam Muhammad (Deputy Director). The meeting focused on current projects, areas of expertise, and future collaboration in maritime research. Both organizations emphasized sustainable practices and technological innovations. NIMA officials were invited to visit PMSTP labs, and the meeting concluded with a commitment to continue working together towards shared goals.
On June 5, 2024 A four-member team led by Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI (M), President of the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), visited the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Karachi Center. Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim Zia, Principal Scientific Officer (NIO), along with his team, welcomed the NIMA team and gave a brief presentation on NIO’s current projects and areas of expertise. Both organizations discussed their common research agenda and explored future collaborative projects. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue working together toward the attainment of shared goals.
On June 5, 2024, Mr. Baber Bilal Haider, Vice President of the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), participated in a high-level panel discussion organized by COMSATS in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). During the discussion, Mr. Haider emphasized the pressing issues of coastal erosion and the challenges associated with biodiversity laws in Pakistan’s coastal regions.
On June 4, 2024, the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), in collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Bahria University (BU), hosted a seminar to commemorate World Environment Day. The theme was “Coastal Erosion Management, Mangroves Preservation & Ecosystem Rehabilitation,”. Esteemed guests included Norwegian Ambassador HE Per Albert Ilsaas, Sri Lankan Deputy Head of Mission Mr. A. Christy Ruban, Ms. Farzana Altaf Shah (DG of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency), Amb. Nafees Zakarya (Executive Director of COMSATS), Mr. Gauhar Zahid Malik (President & Executive Editor at Pakistan Observer), and Muhammad Ibrahim Khan (WWF-Pakistan’s representative). President NIMA, Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI (M), emphasized the need for a broader plan focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals. The Chief Guest, Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, highlighted the significance of Environment Day and Pakistan’s initiatives for ecosystem restoration
On May 23, 2024, eminent panelists spoke at the ISSI-NIMA seminar on “India’s Maritime Buildup: Implications for the Indian Ocean.” The insightful discourse addressed changing strategic dynamics, India’s growing naval capabilities, and emerging security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region. The seminar stressed the need for a greater focus by Pakistan on the maritime domain.
On May 20, 2024, Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI(M), President of NIMA, delivered an insightful talk on ‘Maritime Potential of Pakistan’ to the honorable members of the Rotary Club of Islamabad Cosmopolitan. The aim was to apprise the audience of the significant potential of Pakistan’s maritime economy and its capacity to contribute effectively to the national economy. The talk was followed by a Q&A session, and the event concluded with the exchange of mementos.
