Pakistan Navy, in collaboration with China, has identified vast gas reserves deep beneath the Arabian Sea, a discovery that could potentially transform the country’s economic landscape.
The revelation was made by Rear Admiral (Retd) Fawad Amin Baig during a special segment of Capital Talk on Geo News, coinciding with Pakistan Navy Day on September 8.
“The country’s waters are not only rich in minerals but also hold a treasure trove of marine resources that, if tapped wisely, could change Pakistan’s economic outlook,” said Rear Admiral Baig. He credited the Pakistan Navy for playing a pivotal role in the exploration efforts, which were carried out under the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff.
The discovery stems from a detailed seabed survey conducted with Chinese assistance. According to Baig, the findings confirm the presence of significant gas reserves beneath Pakistan’s waters. He emphasized that the next critical step is to attract investors who can bring the necessary funding and technology to extract and utilize these resources effectively.
“With the right investment and advanced technology, this hidden wealth could be harnessed to drive Pakistan’s development,” he said.
However, Rear Admiral Baig also highlighted the challenges Pakistan faces in realizing the potential of these resources. He pointed to the impact of “hostile fifth-generation warfare tactics” that often deter investors whenever Pakistan moves towards progress.
Despite these hurdles, he expressed optimism, citing the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the combined efforts of the military and political leadership in creating a robust defence and economic strategy.
The discovery comes as part of efforts to enhance Pakistan-China cooperation in resource exploration and development. A joint statement issued last year reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Pakistan in marine oil and gas exploration, as well as natural gas hydrates.
China has pledged to encourage its firms to participate in the development of Pakistan’s offshore oil and gas blocks, further boosting mining and industrial cooperation between the two nations.
The discovery of these gas reserves could be a game-changer for Pakistan, offering a much-needed boost to its struggling economy. With the right policies, investment, and international collaboration, the country could unlock a new era of economic growth and energy independence.
As Rear Admiral Baig aptly put it, “The Pakistan Navy has not only safeguarded our seas but has also opened the door to immense economic opportunities beneath them.”
