Pakistan offers Oman trade access via Gwadar, Karachi Ports

Pakistan offers Oman trade access via Gwadar, Karachi Ports to boost regional trade and enhance connectivity.

Pakistan has extended an offer to Oman to utilize the Gwadar and Karachi ports for improved access to emerging markets in Central Asia.

The proposal was presented during a high-level meeting in Muscat between Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal and his Omani counterpart, Qais Al Yousif.

According to an official statement from Pakistan’s commerce ministry, both sides discussed strategies to enhance bilateral trade and investment. They agreed on the importance of improving transportation links and leveraging Pakistan as a trade gateway to Central Asia.

The Pakistani delegation emphasized the strategic role of Gwadar and Karachi ports as crucial trade hubs, providing Oman with better market access. Discussions also covered sector-specific collaboration in textiles, SMEs, agriculture, food security, and manufacturing.

During the meeting, both ministers stressed the need for industrial cooperation, joint ventures, and agricultural trade to build a sustainable supply chain. Pakistan also invited Oman to explore investment prospects in its industrial and manufacturing sectors.

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal highlighted Pakistan’s industrial expertise and competitive business environment, suggesting that Oman could leverage Pakistan’s capabilities to achieve its Vision 2040 economic diversification goals. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to expanding economic cooperation with Oman.

Qais Al Yousif acknowledged Pakistan’s strategic position in regional trade, stating that historical ties and geographic proximity make it an ideal trade route for Central Asia. He expressed Oman’s keen interest in strengthening economic ties and increasing trade and investment opportunities.

Both ministers reaffirmed their dedication to boosting trade, investment, and economic collaboration, concluding the meeting with a shared vision for exploring new opportunities for mutual growth.

The Omani delegation included officials such as Saleh Said Misan, Ibtisam Ahmed Al Farougi, Rashid Said Rashdi, Khalid Ali Al Habsi, and Suhaib Amir Al Sawafi, while Pakistan’s delegation comprised Ambassador Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, Ishrat Bhatti, and Talha Khan.