In a significant move to bolster connectivity, Pakistan and Trkiye are actively exploring the launch of a new ferry service, a proposal that could dramatically enhance tourism and trade by creating a direct sea link between the two nations.
The potential for a new passenger and cargo sea route was a central theme during a high-level meeting on Friday between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Trkiye’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloglu. The ministers deliberated on expanding maritime cooperation into several new domains.
Discussions also covered prospects for joint ventures in shipbuilding, ship operations, and the shipbreaking industry. Both officials concurred on the need to fortify economic linkages through sustainable maritime initiatives that would provide mutual benefits.
Minister Chaudhry underscored the immense potential of Gwadar Port for blue economy-related industries, extending a formal invitation to Turkish private sector investors. He articulated Pakistan’s commitment to developing Gwadar into a contemporary maritime and logistics hub designed to facilitate regional commerce and boost the national economy.
“Cooperation with Trkiye in the maritime domain would not only enhance Pakistan’s technical capacity but also open new channels of regional trade and connectivity,” Chaudhry stated, emphasizing the profound importance Pakistan places on its enduring fraternal ties with Trkiye.
Expressing his country’s keen interest, Turkish Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu confirmed the ferry service proposal would be taken up with the relevant ministry in Trkiye. He noted such a service could foster greater people-to-people connections and provide an affordable, efficient transportation alternative.
In a concrete step forward, Uraloglu announced that a Turkish delegation of shipowners and port service providers will soon visit Pakistan to evaluate investment opportunities, with a specific focus on Gwadar Port. He commended Pakistan’s efforts in modernizing its port infrastructure.
Welcoming the announcement, Chaudhry assured the prospective delegation of Pakistan’s full support and facilitation. He reiterated the government’s diligent work to improve the operational efficiency of its ports, particularly Gwadar, to establish it as a pivotal node for regional trade.
The dialogue also touched upon the fisheries sector, with the Pakistani minister highlighting a 25,000-ton tuna fish quota. He proposed that Turkish investors could establish a value addition and canning facility in Pakistan to tap into lucrative export markets for processed seafood.
Furthermore, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry revealed plans for a major maritime conference in Pakistan within the next three months. The event aims to convene domestic and international stakeholders to explore investment avenues and advance regional collaboration.
Both ministers concluded the meeting by reaffirming their dedication to deepening the bilateral relationship through practical collaboration, expressing optimism that the partnership will lead to shared economic prosperity.