KARACHI, Pakistan: The Adviser to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has said that nuclearization and militarization of Indian Ocean poses a grave threat to the regional peace and security.
In his address at the opening session of three-day 7th International Maritime Conference in Karachi on Saturday, the adviser said that all naval forces across the world have a pivotal role in maritime security.
While highlighting the significance of the Indian Ocean, Sartaj Aziz said that the Indian Ocean provides connectivity to the Middle East, Africa and Australia with Europe.
The adviser said that Pakistan has strategic stakes in peaceful navigation of cargoes in the Indian Ocean because of Gwadar Port and China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He said that the government is taking all the requisite steps to ensure maritime security in the ocean.
Sartaj Aziz emphasized the need for turning the Indian Ocean into a zone of peace and prosperity to benefit the whole region. He warned that any rivalry in the ocean would only impede the process of development.
The adviser said that all the regional countries have an important role to develop common bonds for sustainable development.
Earlier in his inaugural address at the Conference, the Naval Chief Admiral Zakaullah said that the International Maritime Conference will help to address the problems of maritime.
The Naval Chief said that Pakistan Navy is cognizant of its responsibilities, adding that a special force has been established for security of CPEC and Gwadar Port. He said that safe maritime voyage will be helpful to strengthen economy.
