Pakistan, Kazakhstan Explore Maritime Trade Expansion through Karachi, Port Qasim and Gwadar
Pakistan and Kazakhstan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening maritime trade, regional connectivity and logistics cooperation by exploring greater use of Karachi Port, Port Qasim and Gwadar Port as gateways for Kazakh cargo destined for international markets. The discussions took place during a farewell meeting between Kazakhstan’s Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin and Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.
During the meeting, Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry appreciated Ambassador Kistafin’s role in strengthening bilateral relations during his tenure and expressed confidence that cooperation in the maritime sector, port development, shipping services and trade facilitation would continue to expand. He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing engagement with Kazakhstan through stronger maritime partnerships that support economic growth and regional commerce.
The Minister stated that Pakistan is prepared to provide modern port infrastructure and logistical support for Kazakh cargo through Karachi Port, Port Qasim and Gwadar Port, while also encouraging potential joint ventures in port free zones. He noted that improved maritime cooperation could create new commercial opportunities for businesses in both countries and contribute to more efficient regional supply chains.
Highlighting Pakistan’s strategic location, the Minister said the country’s seaports have the potential to serve as key transit hubs for Kazakhstan and other Central Asian states, providing direct access to markets in the Persian Gulf, Africa and Southeast Asia. Such connectivity is expected to strengthen trade corridors and improve regional logistics.
Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin welcomed the prospects for expanding bilateral trade, emphasizing that closer collaboration in the ports and maritime sectors could unlock new avenues for commerce and investment. Both sides also discussed strengthening institutional cooperation and exploring practical mechanisms to facilitate Kazakh trade through Pakistani ports, reinforcing their shared vision of enhanced regional connectivity and sustainable economic partnership.
