Islamabad: Pakistan and Kazakhstan are set to strengthen their maritime ties, aiming to boost regional trade and connectivity. During a recent meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and Kazakhstan’s Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin, both nations underscored the importance of enhancing economic collaboration and bilateral maritime cooperation.

Minister Chaudhry emphasized the strategic significance of regional linkages to facilitate economic growth. He highlighted the potential benefits for Kazakhstan, a landlocked nation, in connecting with Pakistan through land routes, railways, and port infrastructure. The discussions focused on expanding maritime trade, infrastructure development, and sustainable practices.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s ambition to become a regional trade hub, Minister Chaudhry stated that the maritime sector is pivotal to economic advancement. He expressed a commitment to transforming Pakistan’s ports into major global trade centers through innovative solutions and international partnerships.

Ambassador Kistafin voiced Kazakhstan’s interest in developing cooperation in shipping and logistics. He noted the strategic location and efficiency of Pakistan’s ports, such as Gwadar, Karachi, and Port Qasim, as vital gateways for accessing markets in the Gulf and Africa.

Both parties agreed to take practical measures to streamline logistics, optimize trade corridors, and explore joint ventures in port modernization. Minister Chaudhry updated on development initiatives at Karachi Port Trust, Port Qasim Authority, and Gwadar Port Authority, inviting Kazakhstan to participate actively.

Environmental sustainability was highlighted, with Pakistan focusing on green shipping, reducing marine pollution, and protecting coastal ecosystems. The two sides recognized the importance of workforce development and cultural exchange to strengthen ties.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to establish working groups to expedite collaborative projects. Ambassador Kistafin praised Pakistan’s maritime leadership and expressed Kazakhstan’s support for deepening bilateral cooperation, envisioning a more integrated regional trade network.