ISLAMABAD: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance institutional, academic and research collaboration. The agreement was formalized at a ceremony held at the ISSI, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between the two leading think-tanks.
The MoU was signed by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, and Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmad Saeed, President of NIMA. The ceremony was moderated by Malik Qasim Mustafa, Director of the Asia Centre for Development and Cooperation (ACDC), who played a key role in facilitating the MoU.
During his address, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood extended a warm welcome to the NIMA delegation and underscored the significance of the MoU. He praised NIMA for its contributions to Pakistan’s maritime and security policies and expressed optimism that the agreement would strengthen mutual collaboration.
“This MoU will pave the way for impactful research, conferences, and capacity-building initiatives,” he said. Ambassador Mahmood also affirmed the commitment of both institutions to leverage their combined expertise and resources to advance Pakistan’s interests in maritime and related domains.
Vice Admiral Ahmad Saeed, reflecting on past collaborative efforts, expressed enthusiasm for a more formalized partnership. He highlighted that the new agreement would provide a platform for fresh perspectives on policy orientation, particularly in maritime affairs. “This collaboration will yield positive outcomes in influencing the policy process, aligned with the strategic objectives of both institutions,” he noted.
Malik Qasim Mustafa emphasized the longstanding active collaboration between ISSI and NIMA and highlighted that the MoU would formalize and structure their cooperative efforts. The focus of the partnership will include maritime security, the Blue Economy, and broader maritime interests.
The MoU outlines a framework for future joint efforts, including the exchange of researchers, the organization of joint events, and the initiation of research projects on subjects of mutual interest.
