Committee reviews measures to improve port connectivity

ISLAMABAD: A high-level intergovernmental committee on Saturday reviewed measures to improve the efficiency, competitiveness, and development of Pakistan’s ports. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (DPM/FM) Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar chaired a high-level meeting to discuss ways to improve port connectivity. The meeting focused on enhancing port connectivity, streamlining operational processes, strengthening inter-agency coordination, facilitating trade and logistics, and advancing reforms to position Pakistan’s ports as efficient regional trade gateways. The committee noted that Pakistan’s strategic location at the crossroads of Central, South, and West Asia offers significant opportunities to maximise economic benefits through improved regional connectivity. Dar emphasised that Pakistan’s geographical location is a valuable asset that must be fully utilised. Also read: Pakistan’s KGTL port plans up to $100mn more investment after Iran war cargo surge The Secretary of Maritime Affairs gave a detailed briefing on the current status of the country’s ports, their operational performance, and utilisation capacity. The meeting was attended by the ministers for Law and Justice and Maritime Affairs, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, the Secretary of Maritime Affairs, the Director General of the National Logistics Corporation (NLC), the Chairman of the Karachi Port Authority (KPT), and senior officials from relevant departments. Meanwhile, Dar also chaired an inter-ministerial meeting to review Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen economic diplomacy. He emphasised the importance of intensifying efforts at the international and regional levels to promote Pakistan’s economy, including by enhancing compliance with international standards and obligations. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustainable economic stabilisation, Dar directed all stakeholders to further accelerate their efforts in this regard. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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