Islamabad: 14th January 2025: A high-level meeting on the operationalization of Gwadar Port was chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary. The meeting focused on developing a strategy to transform Gwadar Port into a global hub for trade and economic activity.
Planning Minister Prof Ahsan Iqbal directed to;
- Conduct a comparative analysis of Gwadar Port’s trade costs with other regional ports to better highlight its efficiency and potential.
- Seek concrete proposals from the private sector to enhance trade through Gwadar Port, with the government committed to providing full support.
- Position Gwadar as a central hub for trade with Central Asian states, Gulf countries, and African regions.
- The Ministry of Maritime Affairs was directed to prepare a detailed and actionable roadmap, including plans for the development of industrial zones and improving trade traffic through the western provincial routes.
Highlights of the Meeting:
Gwadar Port has immense potential to serve not only Pakistan but also the global trade network as a corridor and a transcontinental trade center.
Short- and medium-term strategies for the development of the port will be implemented within the next six months.
The meeting emphasized the importance of increasing shipments through Gwadar Port by encouraging greater involvement of the private sector.
The availability of basic facilities such as a desalination plant for water supply and electricity in most areas was acknowledged with satisfaction.
Prof. Ahsan Iqbal stated that Gwadar Port provides the shortest trade route to Shenyang, China, and Central Asia. The complete operationalization of this port has the potential to transform Pakistan’s economic landscape.
Through joint efforts by the government and private sector, Gwadar will be developed as a global trade hub, serving as a significant milestone in increasing Pakistan’s exports and strengthening the national economy.
