Pakistan, China deepen marine science cooperation at Qingdao forum

September 28, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and China are seeking to expand cooperation in marine science, blue economy development and climate resilience following a regional marine cooperation forum held in Qingdao, Shandong province.

More than 100 participants from China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives and other South Asian countries attended the China-South Asian Countries Marine Cooperation Forum last week.

The forum adopted the China-South Asian Countries Marine Cooperation Initiative, which is aimed at strengthening regional cooperation in marine science, sustainable development and the blue economy.

Participants discussed ocean and climate observation, forecasting and disaster prevention, marine ecosystem protection and restoration, as well as integrated ocean management and sustainable blue economy development.

Pakistani experts participated in the discussions, including Engr. Naimatullah Sohoo, director general of Pakistan’s National Institute of Oceanography, who presented the country’s strategies for ocean conservation and climate resilience.

Prof Dr Abdul Malik, vice chancellor of Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences (LUAWMS), highlighted China’s contribution to Pakistan’s marine science capacity.

He said LUAWMS’s marine science department had benefited from Chinese support, particularly in human-resource development.

LUAWMS has previously signed memorandums of understanding with Chinese institutions including the First Institute of Oceanography under China’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Dalian Ocean University.

Dr Aidah Baloch, a postdoctoral researcher at the First Institute of Oceanography, said the forum could create opportunities for Pakistan in technology transfer, joint research and capacity building.

She said the participating countries were expected to follow up with concrete projects in marine observation, ecosystem protection and sustainable blue economy development in the coming months

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