ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has great potential, especially in the maritime sector and Kazakhstan is keenly interested in enhancing cooperation with Islamabad in the areas of trade, shipping, and logistics, Ambassador of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Kistafin said here on Monday.

The ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location and advanced port facilities—including Gwadar and Karachi — as critical gateways for Kazakhstan to access markets in the Gulf, Africa and beyond.

“Pakistani ports are efficient and well-positioned to facilitate Kazakhstan’s trade expansion. Strengthening connectivity through Pakistan opens up new avenues for economic integration across Central and South Asia,” the ambassador stated in a meeting with Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.

Ambassador Kistafin praised Pakistan’s leadership in maritime development and expressed Kazakhstan’s full support for deepening bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, the minister highlighted the importance of enhancing regional connectivity, boosting economic collaboration and promoting bilateral maritime cooperation between the two countries.

Chaudhary emphasised the strategic importance of enhancing regional linkages to facilitate trade and economic growth.

He noted that Kazakhstan, as a landlocked country, stands to gain considerable advantages by connecting with Pakistan through integrated land routes, railway networks and access to the country’s port infrastructure. The discussions centred on expanding collaboration in maritime trade, infrastructure development and sustainable maritime practices.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to becoming a regional trade hub, Minister Chaudhry stated, “Our maritime sector is a cornerstone of economic growth. By adopting innovative solutions and strengthening international partnerships, we aim to transform our ports into major centres of global trade.”

Published in Dawn, April 15th, 2025