Pakistan has offered Kazakhstan access to its ports for boosting regional trade and transport links. The offer includes using Karachi, Port Qasim, and Gwadar as gateways to South Asia, the Gulf, and beyond. Talks took place in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and a Kazakh delegation led by Transport Minister Nurlan Sauranbayev. Federal Secretary Syed Zafar Ali Shah welcomed the delegation and highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location and port capacity. He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Central Asian trade through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Officials discussed multiple ways to improve connectivity, including road, rail, and sea routes linking Central Asia to the Arabian Sea. Pakistan also offered incentives such as competitive tariffs, free trade zones, and tax exemptions. Presentations were given on port facilities and logistics at Karachi, Port Qasim, and Gwadar. These ports already have the capacity to handle additional Central Asian cargo. Officials stressed that a multipurpose terminal at Gwadar is key for future trade growth.
Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Port Qasim Authority (PQA) highlighted their readiness to handle increased trade volumes. Rear Admiral Ateeq-ur-Rehman, KPT’s acting chairman, shared plans for a maritime business district covering 140 acres. Rear Admiral (Retd) Syed Moazzam Ilyas, chairman of PQA, discussed rail-linked off-dock terminals for cargo flow. He also noted Pakistan’s growing role as a regional energy and logistics hub. Gwadar was presented as the shortest land-sea route for Central Asia via the coastal highway.
Kazakhstan showed strong interest in Pakistan’s port facilities and trade routes. Transport Minister Sauranbayev said his country wants long-term maritime cooperation with Pakistan. He noted the value of connecting Kazakh trade to warm water ports. This move could significantly reduce shipping costs and improve delivery times. Both sides agreed to explore further collaboration under CPEC.
This development marks a new phase in Pakistan-Kazakhstan relations. It reflects growing regional cooperation focused on connectivity and economic development. Pakistan’s strategic location and modern port infrastructure are seen as key assets. With continued dialogue and investment, this partnership could transform Central Asia’s access to global markets.