Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has underscored the need for a comprehensive strategy in the proposed development of Keti Bunder Port, highlighting the importance of infrastructure support through road connectivity, power and water supply, and industrial facilities.

According to Press Information Department, President Zardari made these remarks during a presentation by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) on the port’s development. He welcomed the Chinese delegation and acknowledged China’s ongoing support for Pakistan’s infrastructure and maritime projects.

President Zardari highlighted Keti Bunder’s potential to enhance Pakistan’s port capabilities and bolster trade and connectivity. He called for robust technical collaboration between Chinese entities and Pakistani authorities. Additionally, he emphasized the significance of environmental sustainability and the protection of the Indus Delta ecosystem, advocating for the interests of local fishing communities. He urged for further technical discussions to refine the master plan and establish an effective implementation and financing strategy.

The Chinese delegation unveiled the Conceptual Master Plan for the port, proposing a new deep-water maritime gateway featuring multiple terminals and logistics infrastructure. The initial phase includes a multi-purpose terminal with a 500-metre quay, estimated to cost approximately $522.34 million.

The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, Senators Saleem Mandviwala and Sherry Rehman, Sindh Minister for Energy and P&D Nasir Hussain Shah, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Investment & Public Private Partnership Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar, and Chief Secretary Sindh Syed Asif Hyder Shah, alongside key members of the Chinese delegation.