Pakistan, Oman deepen trade ties during minister’s visit

March 12, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and Oman have taken a significant step toward strengthening their economic partnership as Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan embarked on a three-day official visit to the Sultanate.

On the first day of his visit, the minister engaged in high-level discussions in Sohar, Oman's key industrial hub, focusing on enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and industrial collaboration.

The Minister began his day with a visit to Sohar Port and Free Zone, where he was received by H.E. Mohammad Al Shizawi, CEO of Sohar Freezone and Vice President of Sohar Port, along with senior officials Mr. Ahmed Al Hosni and Mr. Ali Al Yamani.

Accompanied by Ambassador H.E. Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari and Counsellor Commercial Mr. Ishrat Hussain Bhatti, the Minister was given a detailed briefing on the port’s state-of-the-art facilities and its role as a major trade and logistics hub.

A presentation was also delivered on the integrated free economic zone and industrial city, highlighting the strategic importance of Sohar, which handles 80% of Oman’s international trade and industrial activities.

Following the briefing, Minister Jam was taken on a guided tour of the port’s various industrial clusters and key sectors, according to the press release.

During discussions with Omani officials, he emphasized the potential for enhanced trade cooperation, particularly in expanding Sohar Port and Free Zone’s reach through Pakistan to Central Asia and China.

He also highlighted key sectors for joint ventures and investment opportunities between Pakistani and Omani businesses.

Later, the Minister proceeded to the Governor’s Office of North Al Batinah Province, where he was received by H.E. Muhammad bin Sulaiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, and Engr. Said Al Abri, Chairman of Sohar Chapter of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI).

The meeting was attended by members of the Sohar branch of OCCI, prominent industrialists, and business leaders, who engaged in discussions on strengthening commercial ties.

The Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to boosting trade with Oman, particularly in the industrial and logistics sectors.

Concluding his engagements in Sohar, the Minister was taken on a city tour and later offered prayers at the iconic Sultan Qaboos Mosque of Sohar, reflecting Pakistan’s strong cultural and historical connections with Oman.

The Minister’s visit marks a significant step toward deepening economic collaboration between Pakistan and Oman, with further high-level meetings scheduled in Muscat in the coming days.

Copyright Mettis Link News