Qaseem Shah:
ISLAMABAD, October 11, 2025 — The second day of the Balochistan Grand Tourism Festival 2025 continued in Islamabad on a vibrant note, showcasing the province’s enormous potential in tourism, maritime trade, and the Blue Economy.
The highlight of the day was a panel discussion on the “Blue Economy of Balochistan,” where experts described the province’s 900-kilometer-long coastal belt as a game changer for Pakistan’s economy.
Experts See Balochistan’s Coastline as an Economic Powerhouse
Renowned economists and researchers emphasized that Balochistan’s coastal districts — including Gwadar, Jiwani, Ormara, Gadani, Sonmiani, and Pasni — hold immense potential for investment, fisheries, water sports, and eco-tourism.
They noted that the province’s marine life and fisheries sector could generate substantial foreign exchange if supported through sustainable policies and modern infrastructure.
Experts further called for the establishment of a Maritime Training Institute and fish processing units in the province to build local expertise and create new employment opportunities.
Public-Private Partnerships Can Accelerate Growth
Speaking at the session, Dr. Babar Bilal Haider said that “Balochistan’s Blue Economy can become the backbone of Pakistan’s economic growth.”
He added that investment in coastal infrastructure, shipping, and marine industries could help diversify the national economy.
Dr. Banish Malik emphasized that public-private partnerships can unlock new opportunities for regional development, boosting tourism and creating thousands of jobs across coastal districts.
Promoting Culture, Tourism, and Sustainability
Speakers lauded the initiative of the Department of Culture and Tourism, calling the Balochistan Grand Tourism Festival a remarkable step toward promoting cultural heritage, natural resources, and eco-friendly tourism.
They underscored that sustainable coastal development can bring long-term prosperity and help integrate Balochistan into Pakistan’s mainstream economic growth.
The event was attended by Secretary Sohail Rehman Baloch, Dr. Dawood Tareen, Hashim Khetran, and Jamil Baloch, alongside a large number of investors, intellectuals, artists, and researchers.
A Shared Vision for Balochistan’s Future
Participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to protecting and promoting Balochistan’s natural and marine resources.
They agreed that the province’s Blue Economy can open a new chapter in Pakistan’s maritime and tourism development, positioning Balochistan as the country’s next major economic hub.
