Pakistan Provides the Most Suitable Route for Maritime Trade for Central Asian States, Which Have Shown Deep Interest in Using Pakistan’s Ports for Trade, Expressed During a Meeting
Karachi: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan holds significant geographical importance. According to details, during his visit, he had a comprehensive discussion at Karachi Port Trust, where, among other things, he chaired a meeting of Karachi Port Trust, Port Qasim Authority, and National Shipping Corporation. In this regard, Shehbaz Sharif gave a detailed briefing on the operations, challenges, and plans of Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Port Qasim, and Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC).
During this occasion, while the Prime Minister said that Pakistan is essential from a geographical point of view, he added that he had extensive talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and leaders of Central Asia countries when he traveled to Kazakhstan. These conversations were marked by the strategic position of Pakistan’s ports. The government is providing the most appropriate path to sea trade for Central Asian nations, who have indicated their eagerness to use Pakistan’s harbors for commercial purposes. The government must improve modern systems at ports and make them accessible to realize their full potential.
He pointed out that if central Asian states started using Pakistan’s seaports, this could be a game changer for Pakistan’s economy. This move will earn our country billions of dollars in foreign exchange revenues and create a ripple effect of economic growth. To significantly reduce customs clearance time at Port Qasim and Karachi port trust. The premier has instructed relevant quarters to install modern equipment and machinery. They emphasized installing modern scanning machinery at these ports to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
In addition, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for priority measures to utilize the port’s capacity fully. Suggesting a strategic overhaul is required in preparation for the expected increased maritime traffic. He stressed the need to modernize ports to international standards to attract more trade and investment. Therefore, by improving infrastructure and enhancing the operational efficiency of the ports. Pakistan can become a critical maritime hub in the region.
In addition, he emphasized the need to enhance rail capacity for transporting goods between Karachi Port and the hinterland. This will improve logistics, reduce road congestion, and hence quicken the movement of goods. Rail transport integration into port operations is crucial in optimizing supply chain operations and improving trading efficiency.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also underscored the broader economic benefits of these improvements. Positioning Pakistan as a critical maritime trade route for Central Asia could spur significant financial growth and employment creation. And increased revenue. Modernizing port facilities and infrastructure is expected to attract international investors. Further strengthening Pakistan’s position in global trade and creating numerous job opportunities.
The meeting concluded with a firm promise to implement these directives and devise plans swiftly. The Prime Minister suggested that the government extend support to ensure its ports achieve their ultimate goals. The focus remains on improving their competitiveness and efficiency to catch up with the increasing demands of international trade. This endeavor has the full commitment of the government.
Moreover, Pakistan’s strategic location and proactive measures by successive governments to improve port infrastructure testify to its potential to become a significant regional and global trading hub. Central Asian nations have expressed immense interest in utilizing Pakistani ports. Which indicates Pakistan’s maritime trade industry’s bright future.
