Pakistan, Kazakhstan review ways to boost connectivity through ports

July 29, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and Kazakhstan discussed avenues to expand bilateral trade through Pakistani ports, enhance regional connectivity and strengthen maritime cooperation, as the two sides looked to build on progress made in the sector over recent years.

The discussion took place at a farewell meeting between Kazakhstan's Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin and Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, said a press release issued.

The Minister appreciated the Ambassador's contribution to strengthening Pakistan-Kazakhstan relations during his tenure and expressed hope that cooperation in the maritime sector would continue to grow.

Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said Pakistan was keen to deepen engagement with Kazakhstan in ports, shipping, trade facilitation and regional connectivity, noting that stronger maritime links could open up new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

He said Pakistan was ready to offer port infrastructure and support for Kazakh cargo through Karachi, Port Qasim and Gwadar, including potential joint ventures in free zones.

He added that Pakistani seaports could serve as transit hubs for Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian region, providing access to markets in the Persian Gulf, Africa and Southeast Asia.

For his part, Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin pointed to the potential for expanding bilateral trade, noting that closer engagement in the maritime and port sectors could create new avenues for commerce.

Both sides also discussed strengthening institutional linkages and exploring practical measures to facilitate Kazakh trade through Pakistani ports.

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