Ahsan Iqbal finalizes action plan for Gwadar Port operationalization

March 04, 2025 (MLN): To finalize an actionable strategy for the operationalization of Gwadar Port and ensure the effective implementation of the plan, Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, chaired a high-level meeting.

The primary agenda of the meeting was to review critical issues impeding the operationalization of Gwadar Port and address key challenges hindering its full functionality.

Addressing the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the government’s commitment to making Gwadar a regional trade hub, according to the press release issued today.

He stated that the Prime Minister has directed the immediate operationalization of Gwadar Port, and all stakeholders must adopt a proactive approach to accelerate progress.

He further stressed that the economic viability of Gwadar Port is directly linked to providing livelihood opportunities for local communities in Balochistan.

“The success of Gwadar is tied to creating employment opportunities for its people", Ahsan Iqbal added.

Rapid urbanization, development of IT parks, free zones, and high-rise buildings, and improved infrastructure are essential for Gwadar’s transformation into a modern port city,” he remarked.

Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the strategic importance of Central Asian Republics (CARs) in Gwadar’s operationalization.

He directed the relevant ministries to position Gwadar as a competitive trade and transshipment hub for CARs.

“We need to actively engage with CARs and offer them a compelling value proposition for using Gwadar as their preferred trade route,” he asserted.

To facilitate this, DG National Logistics Corporation (NLC) was tasked with presenting viable options for linking Central Asian trade with Gwadar.

The Minister underscored the importance of robust security arrangements to ensure seamless port operations.

He further directed the concerned departments to identify locations for rest areas along the Karachi-Gwadar route and ensure mobile network coverage for improved connectivity.

Additionally, Member Infrastructure, Planning Commission Mr. Waqas Anwer was assigned the task of identifying short-term and long-term measures and formulating an action plan for immediate interventions.

A dedicated working group on transshipment was also proposed to fast-track initiatives linking CAR trade with Gwadar Port.

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