Islamabad: Pakistan and Egypt have agreed to strengthen their collaboration in the maritime and industrial sectors, with the goal of expanding joint ventures and enhancing their blue economies. This understanding was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and Egypt’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan.
The meeting, which took place on Wednesday, emphasized the commitment of both nations to bolster economic and maritime ties. Discussions focused on exploring opportunities in port development, shipping, logistics, and industrial ventures, highlighting the potential of the blue economy as a catalyst for sustainable growth and regional trade.
Junaid Chaudhry expressed Pakistan’s determination to improve regional connectivity through an integrated network of roads, railways, and sea routes. He stated that Pakistan is actively working to establish stronger connections with Central Asian states and East African countries, and emphasized the potential for enhanced maritime connectivity with Egypt.
As part of Pakistan’s broader economic diplomacy goals, the minister proposed the establishment of “Pakistan Houses” in Africa, Central Asia, and Egypt. These centers aim to promote trade, investment, and business partnerships. He also welcomed reciprocal initiatives from other countries to foster mutual economic collaboration.
Ambassador Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan expressed support for Pakistan’s initiatives and offered Egypt’s expertise in maritime management, particularly in the context of the Suez Canal’s free zones. He suggested the development of similar frameworks and joint ventures within Pakistan’s maritime sector.
The ambassador also praised the quality and competitiveness of Pakistani exports, such as spices, pharmaceuticals, leather goods, wooden crafts, and rice. He expressed optimism about the continued growth of bilateral trade across various sectors.
Both sides agreed that closer cooperation in maritime and industrial development has the potential to strengthen economic relations and promote greater regional integration across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.