Islamabad: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has called for urgent measures to ensure Gwadar Port becomes fully operational, emphasizing the role of private sector participation in increasing shipments to the port.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the minister chaired a meeting in Islamabad focused on formulating strategies to operationalize Gwadar Port effectively within six months. The discussions centered on comparing trade costs with other regional ports and developing short- and medium-term plans.

The minister urged the private sector to submit detailed proposals for enhancing trade through the port, promising full government support in providing necessary data. Highlighting the port’s capacity, he noted its track record of handling 600,000 tons of cargo efficiently.

Additionally, the minister instructed the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to create a comprehensive roadmap for Gwadar’s development. This plan should include strategies for boosting industrial zones and optimizing traffic along the western provincial route, aiming to enhance the port’s role in regional trade.