Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi recently met to discuss a plan for collaboration between the ports and sports sectors under the blue economy vision.
The main focus of their discussion, as stated in a press release, was to amplify the role of maritime and coastal infrastructure beyond just trade and logistics, aiming to include sports development, youth involvement, and environmental awareness.
The Minister promised complete support from maritime institutions for sports initiatives, especially in coastal areas, mentioning that ports and maritime zones are becoming key centers for national development where education, sports, and environmental conservation can work together.
He mentioned that cricket could be a powerful platform to educate young people about marine conservation, climate change, and ocean resources.
Shahid Afridi expressed his support for the ideas, highlighting the great potential for sports tourism and grassroots cricket development, stating that sports are one of the best ways to engage youth in positive activities.
The two parties discussed plans to launch coastal sports and ocean awareness campaigns in Karachi, Gwadar, and other port cities, combining cricket tournaments with sessions on mangrove conservation, marine biodiversity, and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
According to the proposed plan, maritime institutions would offer infrastructure support, while sports organisations and private sector partners would create training and outreach programs.
Pakistan’s Blue Economy vision seeks to turn the country into a global maritime center by moving from a land-focused development approach to a sea-driven economic model.
The main aim is to make the most of the nation’s 1,001-kilometer coastline and 290,000 square kilometers of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to possibly generate up to $100 billion each year.
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