Oman and Pakistan are examining the establishment of closer cooperation between the ports of Sohar and Gwadar to strengthen maritime and commercial connections between the two countries. This topic was discussed in a meeting between Sami Abdullah Salem Al-Khanjari, the Consul of Oman in Pakistan, and Noor-ul-Haq Baloch, the Chairman of the Gwadar Port Authority.
Strengthening Maritime Connectivity
In this meeting, both parties discussed the possibility of developing the ports of Sohar and Gwadar as sister ports. Syed Naveed Safdar Bukhari, the Ambassador of Pakistan to Oman, regarded these negotiations as a sign of both countries' positive efforts to build a stronger connection. He said: "Connectivity is an important area where both sides are interacting with each other. We are looking to enhance connectivity between the ports of Pakistan and Oman and strengthen logistical cooperation."
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New Opportunities for Trade and Investment
This initiative could help strengthen maritime communications between Pakistan and Oman and create new opportunities for trade, investment, and logistical cooperation. It could also establish stronger connections between the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Gulf markets, and Central Asia. Additionally, the discussions also addressed the possibility of establishing a direct air connection between Gwadar and Oman through Salam Air and utilizing the new Gwadar International Airport.
Establishing this connection could facilitate the movement of goods and passengers between the two countries. Furthermore, investment opportunities for Oman in the Gwadar Free Zone, particularly in logistics, warehousing, and fisheries, were also examined. Other areas under discussion included technical cooperation in port management, dredging, digital port operations, and training and empowering port personnel.
Both parties are looking to finalize a memorandum of understanding in the coming weeks through their respective ministries. This agreement could be seen as an effective step towards strengthening economic and trade relations between Oman and Pakistan.
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