Pakistan has put forward a comprehensive maritime cooperation framework to Bangladesh, a strategic move highlighted by a proposal for mutual support in the upcoming International Maritime Organization (IMO) elections, signaling a major push to deepen bilateral ties.
The proposition was presented by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, during a meeting in London with Brigadier General (retd) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hussain, Bangladesh’s Adviser for Shipping. An official statement released on Monday confirmed the significant diplomatic overture.
The envisioned partnership aims to formalize collaboration between the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) and the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC). The extensive framework covers joint container and bulk shipping services, technical training programmes, and enhanced cooperation on maritime safety and seafarer development.
As part of the proposal, Islamabad has sought Dhaka’s backing for its candidacy in the IMO Category C elections, while affirming that Pakistan would reciprocate by supporting Bangladesh in the same category. “Pakistan will positively support Bangladesh’s request for support in the IMO Category C elections,” Minister Chaudhry stated, emphasizing the intent to boost coordination at multilateral forums.
This collaborative spirit is intended to extend beyond the IMO to other international bodies, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), particularly on seafarer-related matters, and within various regional maritime platforms. Such enhanced coordination, the minister noted, would bolster the ability of both nations to influence global maritime policy and safeguard shared interests.
Reiterating a previous offer, the minister confirmed that facilities at the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) remain available for Bangladeshi cargo. He pointed to KPT’s expanding capacity, ongoing modernisation, and improved turnaround times as key advantages that could facilitate regional commerce and ease logistics hurdles.
To institutionalize this engagement, Mr. Chaudhry suggested the launch of a Pakistan-Bangladesh Maritime Dialogue. This structured platform would enable regular discussions on port development, shipping cooperation, the blue economy, and other emerging maritime issues.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to advance maritime cooperation to support regional stability and shared prosperity, committing to explore practical steps for implementing the proposed initiatives.