Pakistan has offered its technical expertise to help Sudan modernise its maritime infrastructure and boost regional trade connectivity under its Blue Economy Vision 2030.
High-Level Meeting in Islamabad
The offer came during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Sudan’s Ambassador to Pakistan Salih Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed Siddig in Islamabad. Both sides discussed cooperation in port modernisation, logistics, technology-driven operations, and industrial ventures.
Pakistan to Support AI-Based Port Upgrades
Minister Chaudhry reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to assist Sudan in upgrading its port systems, especially Port Sudan, which handles nearly 90% of the country’s international trade.
He said Pakistan had adopted the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy 2025, which integrates AI into port management to enhance efficiency and reduce delays.
“We are transforming our ports through AI to boost efficiency and minimise operational lags. Pakistan is ready to help Sudan do the same,” Chaudhry stated.
Direct Shipping Line Proposed
Ambassador Siddig welcomed the offer and emphasised Sudan’s interest in establishing a direct shipping line between Sudanese and Pakistani ports.
He said such a route could reduce transport costs and improve supply chains linking East Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.
Sudan’s Potential as a Regional Trade Hub
Minister Chaudhry highlighted Sudan’s strategic location and its potential to become a key regional trade hub. He noted that modern, AI-driven ports are vital for economic growth and can offer maritime access to landlocked African countries such as Chad, Ethiopia, Uganda, and the Central African Republic (CAR).
Industrial Cooperation and Gwadar Venture
Beyond maritime collaboration, both sides explored industrial partnerships. Ambassador Siddig expressed interest in expanding trade in pharmaceuticals and agricultural machinery, noting Sudan’s rising need for tractors to support its agriculture sector.
In response, Minister Chaudhry proposed establishing a joint tractor assembly venture at the Gwadar Free Zone.
The project, he said, could meet Sudan’s domestic demand and support exports to other African markets.
Commitment to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation
The meeting concluded with both countries agreeing to strengthen maritime, industrial, and technological cooperation.
They also decided to create practical coordination mechanisms between their respective ministries to ensure sustained progress on joint initiatives.
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