1st Workshop

KARACHI, SINDH – July 15, 2025 – The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), in collaboration with the Balochistan Council on Foreign Relations (BCFR) and Team Balochistan, today commenced a four-day workshop on “Maritime Economy Opportunities & Challenges.” Held at the Fatima Jinnah Auditorium, Bahria University Karachi, the event began with a focus on fostering dialogue and understanding within the crucial maritime sector.

His Excellency Mr. Yang Yundong, Chinese Consul General for the South Region (Sindh & Balochistan), served as the Chief Guest for the inaugural day. During the ceremony, a shield was presented to him jointly by Chairman Team Balochistan & Balochistan Counsel on Foreign Relations, Changgaiz Hussain Khan, President Mohammad Khan, and Executive Director Sarah Bano. Additionally, Director NIMA Karachi, Commodore (Retd) Masud Akram SI(M), presented a shield and souvenir to the Consul General as a token of appreciation.

The first day of the workshop featured a distinguished panel of guest speakers who shared their expertise, including:

President, National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA)

Commodore (Retd) Irfan Taj

Dr. Ambreen Afzal, Research Associate NIMA

Dr. Hassan Daud Butt, Associate Professor NIMA

Ms. Songul Jamal, CEO, Marine Conservation Pakistan

Dr. Samina Kidwai, Associate Professor, Bahria University Karachi Campus (BUKC)

Participants lauded the workshop’s insightful and educational content, gaining valuable knowledge and fresh perspectives on the complex dynamics of the maritime economy. Consul General Yang Yundong also commended the organizers’ efforts, acknowledging the workshop’s significant potential to foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration within the maritime sector over the coming days.