Islamabad: Pakistan has extended its technical expertise to Sudan, aiming to modernize the African nation’s ports and bolster trade connectivity in the region. The announcement came during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and Sudan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Salih Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed Siddig, in Islamabad.
The discussions focused on enhancing maritime development and port modernization, with both parties exploring avenues for improving logistics and integrating technology-driven port operations. Ambassador Siddig expressed Sudan’s interest in establishing a direct shipping line with Pakistani ports, a move anticipated to reduce transport expenses and enhance supply chain connectivity across East Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.
Sudan’s Red Sea ports, particularly Port Sudan, serve as vital trade access points for several landlocked African countries, including Chad, the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, and Uganda.
Minister Chaudhry welcomed these initiatives, expressing Pakistan’s readiness to assist in modernizing Sudan’s ports. He highlighted Pakistan’s recent adoption of the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy 2025, which incorporates AI into port management.
“We are transitioning our ports to AI-based systems to enhance efficiency and minimize operational delays,” Chaudhry stated, proposing that Sudan could benefit similarly. “We can assist Sudan in equipping its ports with AI, particularly Port Sudan, which handles about 90 percent of the country’s international trade.”
He also emphasized the role of modern, tech-driven ports in fostering economic growth and facilitating trade, suggesting that Pakistan’s experience in automation and smart logistics could prove beneficial for Sudan.
The minister noted the potential for broader regional trade facilitated by Sudan, with improved maritime access benefiting its landlocked neighbors. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering regional connectivity as part of its Blue Economy Vision 2030 initiatives.
Ambassador Siddig indicated Sudan’s interest in expanding trade beyond the maritime sector, particularly in pharmaceuticals and agricultural machinery, citing a significant demand for tractors to boost food production.
In response, Minister Chaudhry proposed establishing a joint venture for tractor assembly at the Gwadar Free Zone, aiming to meet Sudan’s domestic needs and promote exports to other African markets.
Both parties agreed to maintain close coordination between their ministries and explore practical cooperation mechanisms. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to deepen maritime and industrial ties and enhance technological collaboration between Pakistan and Sudan.