Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has underscored the strategic significance of the New Gwadar International Airport, emphasizing its potential to boost economic growth and create employment opportunities. During a review meeting held in Islamabad, he directed improvements in the communications and road network between the airport and other regions, with a particular focus on Balochistan province.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Prime Minister called for a practical strategy to establish the airport as a major transit hub. He highlighted that the operationalization of the airport would symbolize the strong cooperation between Pakistan and China, expressing gratitude to China for contributing to the development of this modern facility. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of ensuring robust security measures at the site.

The meeting was informed about the airport’s capacity to manage 400,000 passengers annually and accommodate A-380 aircraft. Plans to initiate flights from Gwadar to Muscat next month were announced, alongside ongoing discussions with airlines from Pakistan, China, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates for both domestic and international routes. Additionally, it was noted that the first phase of the East-Bay Expressway, aimed at enhancing road connectivity to the airport, is complete, with the second phase’s feasibility study underway.

Personnel from various national agencies, including the Pakistan Airport Authority and Airport Security Force, have been stationed at the airport to ensure smooth operations and security.