ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to deepen maritime cooperation with China through strategic investments in ports, shipbuilding, and the blue economy during a series of high-level meetings in Beijing.
In talks with executives of Shandong Xinxu Group Corporation, the minister welcomed a proposal to establish an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex in Pakistan, assuring full government support in terms of land, utilities, and regulatory approvals, Gwadar Pro reported. He underlined that any ship recycling facility under the project must comply with Hong Kong Convention (HKC) and European Union safety standards.
Pointing to Pakistan National Shipping Corporation’s (PNSC) expansion plans, Chaudhry invited the Chinese side to explore joint ventures in shipbuilding, leasing, and feeder services linked to Gwadar Port. He also sought Chinese collaboration in developing dry dock facilities at Gwadar and Port Qasim, and called for investments in EU-certified fish processing units and aquaculture research centers to boost seafood exports.
During discussions with officials of Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Free Trade Zone (TDFTPZ), the minister examined ship financing and leasing opportunities—particularly for Aframax tankers, container vessels, and bulk carriers—without burdening Pakistan with heavy upfront costs. He proposed a China–Gwadar–Africa logistics corridor, coupled with investments in bonded warehouses, cold chain facilities, and bulk cargo terminals in Gwadar.
Chaudhry further recommended specialized training programs for Pakistani free zone managers and customs officials, while inviting a Dongjiang investment delegation to Gwadar in 2025.
In a meeting with FANJIEYUN International, a frozen food and meat importer, the minister discussed Gwadar’s potential to serve as a regional logistics hub through bonded warehousing and feeder vessel services. He also urged a feasibility study to assess Gwadar’s role as a major freight hub for regional transshipment.
Chaudhry’s engagements are part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s ongoing visit to China, with the minister focusing on transforming Gwadar into a regional trade and logistics powerhouse under the evolving framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
