Islamabad: Institute of Maritime Affairs (IMA), BU Islamabad, is holding one day "International Maritime Symposium" on 07 May 2018, in Islamabad.

The main theme of symposium is "Impact of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the Geo-economics of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), Prospects for Pakistan, the Region and Beyond," according to a press issued by Pakistan Navy on Saturday.

Reputed national and international speakers will participate in the event.

This symposium is highly significant due to the current shift of global power from West to East and rapidly changing economic and political dynamics.

Furthermore, experts are of the opinion that Chinese Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) coupled with interests of regional/extra regional actors' is the major factor affecting the future of Indian Ocean Region. In this scenario, the symposium aims to understand the emerging trends in the region and potential implications of BRI at national as well as at regional level. The focus of discussion in the Symposium will mainly be on Geo-economics in the backdrop of Geo-political and strategic issues including security aspects.

This symposium will not only bring out the economic and security prospects of BRI for Pakistan but will also serve a national platform to enhance the maritime awareness, particularly about the emerging trends in the Indian Ocean Region.