Pakistan and Türkiye have agreed to expand collaboration in the maritime sector, unveiling plans for a bilateral ferry service, enhanced shipbuilding partnerships, and new investments in port operations, particularly in Gwadar.
The understanding came during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and Türkiye’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloglu. Both sides emphasized stronger maritime connectivity, sustainable trade, and greater integration of their blue economies.
Uraloglu expressed strong interest in advancing maritime cooperation, noting that the proposed ferry service would be discussed with relevant Turkish authorities to provide an affordable sea transport link enhancing trade and tourism. He also announced that a delegation of Turkish shipowners and port operators would soon visit Pakistan, especially Gwadar, to explore investment prospects.
Chaudhry welcomed the initiative, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to improving port efficiency and positioning Gwadar as a regional logistics and industrial hub. He invited Turkish investors to explore opportunities in port infrastructure, shipbuilding, and seafood processing, highlighting Pakistan’s 25,000-ton tuna quota as a potential area for joint ventures in value-added exports.
He further announced plans for a major maritime conference within the next three months, bringing together local and international stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and attract investments in shipping, logistics, and fisheries.
Both nations reaffirmed their resolve to deepen Pakistan–Türkiye relations through practical collaboration, expressing optimism that these initiatives would drive regional growth, trade diversification, and sustainable maritime development.
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