Islamabad: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf has reaffirmed Pakistan Navy’s commitment to protecting the marine environment and promoting the sustainable use of ocean resources, marking World Oceans Day 2026.
In a message issued on the occasion, the naval chief highlighted the growing environmental challenges facing the world’s oceans and called for stronger conservation measures to safeguard marine ecosystems. He said this year’s World Oceans Day theme, “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet,” reflects the need to enhance efforts aimed at preserving marine biodiversity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of ocean resources.
Admiral Ashraf noted that oceans cover more than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface and play a critical role in regulating the climate, supporting biodiversity, facilitating global trade, and sustaining livelihoods. He said oceans remain a vital source of food, energy, and economic activity but continue to face increasing threats from marine pollution, overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.
The naval chief emphasized the importance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), describing them as key tools for conserving marine ecosystems and protecting vulnerable habitats, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, fish stocks, and endangered marine species. He said effective management of these protected areas strengthens ecological resilience, supports sustainable fisheries, and helps mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Pakistan Navy’s role in protecting the marine environment
Admiral Ashraf said Pakistan Navy remains committed to safeguarding the country’s maritime environment and contributing to the sustainable use of maritime resources. As the custodian of Pakistan’s maritime frontiers, the navy continues to undertake initiatives aimed at preserving marine ecosystems and reducing environmental degradation.
According to the message, these efforts include coastal and sea-cleaning campaigns, environmental awareness programs, and community engagement activities designed to reduce marine pollution and support the health of the Arabian Sea.
Call for collective action
The naval chief urged government institutions, environmental organizations, maritime stakeholders, and local communities to work together to protect marine resources. He said reducing plastic waste, preventing water pollution, supporting sustainable fishing practices, and participating in coastal clean-up initiatives are practical measures that can contribute to healthier oceans.
He stressed that protecting oceans is a shared responsibility and called for stronger cooperation and coordinated action to ensure future generations inherit a healthy, resilient, and productive marine environment.
Observed annually on June 8, World Oceans Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of oceans and encourage efforts to conserve marine ecosystems and promote the sustainable use of ocean resources worldwide.
Also Read: Navy Chief Calls for Stronger Climate Action on World Environment Day
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