Pakistan has invited Turkish investors to tap into a wide range of opportunities in its maritime sector, as Islamabad pushes to modernise its ports and position itself as a regional hub for trade, logistics and the blue economy.
Speaking at the 5th Maritime Summit in Istanbul, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the global maritime industry was undergoing a profound transformation driven by green shipping, resilient supply chains, the blue economy, digitalisation and artificial intelligence. He said these changes were reshaping global trade and maritime governance, making international cooperation more important than ever.
“No country can address emerging challenges or seize new opportunities alone,” the minister said, stressing that strong international partnerships would be essential to achieving sustainable maritime growth.
Highlighting Pakistan’s strategic location at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia and the Indian Ocean, Chaudhry said the country was well placed to serve as a gateway for regional trade and connectivity.
He said the government was implementing reforms at Port Qasim, Karachi Port, Gwadar Port and the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation to transform Pakistan into a modern maritime, logistics and industrial hub capable of supporting growing regional and international trade.
Inviting Turkish businesses and maritime enterprises to invest in Pakistan, the minister identified opportunities in port terminals, LNG and energy infrastructure, green ship repair and recycling facilities, maritime industrial zones, commercial districts, fleet expansion, ferry services, logistics and warehousing, free zones, fisheries and seafood processing, as well as digitalisation initiatives.
Describing Türkiye as a trusted friend and strategic partner, Chaudhry said bilateral ties, built on shared history and mutual trust, had expanded across defence, trade, transportation, energy and maritime affairs. He congratulated the Turkish government on successfully hosting the summit and expressed confidence that it would generate practical ideas and lasting partnerships.
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