KARACHI: Chief of the Naval staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi on Thursday said that global scenario in general and regional geo-political situation in particular warrant concrete and long-term policy decisions for achieving self-reliance. While announcing the establishment of a shipyard in Gwadar, the Admiral said the project will commence anytime soon and will be completed in 3 to 5 years.

He was speaking at the 2nd “PN Industrial Seminar” at Pakistan Navy Engineering College, Karachi organised by Pakistan Navy.

“Technical know-how and basic industrial infrastructure to support Research and Development (R&D) is available in the country. However, it is time to integrate and optimize these facilities with a view to further strengthening process of self-reliance” He added. Chief of the Naval Staff emphasized on increase in the number of ports to cater future requirements and maritime challenges. He said Pak Navy is the custodian of blue economy and maritime awareness is need of the hour in the context of maritime affairs.

While expressing his confidence, the Naval Chief said that through meaningful engagement of the private sector and well articulated strategy, Pakistan will attain complete self-reliance with diligence and focused attention. He further added that in the present era of globalization and technological innovation, we need to join hands and create collaborations and partnerships that can add value to our national economy and strengthen our national defence. He appreciated the response of private sector which showed resolve to work in time constrained and technologically challenging environment.

A number of speakers from private industry and academia threw light on academia-industry linkages and bridging the gap between Pakistan Navy and local industry for indigenization. They emphasized upon further enhancing the contribution of private industrial sector in supporting Pakistan Navy and presented a roadmap to realize this objective.

The Seminar was attended by a large number of PN officers, reps of Local Industry and prominent members of academia.—PR