Islamabad: Pakistan has offered Oman the use of its Gwadar and Karachi ports to enhance access to emerging markets in Central Asia.
According to reports, the offer was made during a high-level meeting in Muscat between Pakistan’s Minister of Commerce, Jam Kamal, and his Omani counterpart, Qais Al Yousef.
A statement issued by Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce revealed that both sides discussed strategies to boost bilateral trade and investment. They also agreed on the need to improve transport connectivity and utilize Pakistan as a trade corridor for Central Asian nations.
The Pakistani delegation highlighted the strategic significance of Gwadar and Karachi ports as key regional trade hubs, which could provide Oman with greater access to emerging markets.
The meeting focused on cooperation in sectors such as textiles, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), agriculture, food security, and manufacturing. Both ministers emphasized the importance of industrial collaboration, joint ventures, and agricultural trade to ensure a sustainable supply chain.
Pakistan also invited Oman to explore investment opportunities in its industrial and manufacturing sectors. Minister Jam Kamal underscored Pakistan’s industrial expertise and business competitiveness, stating that Oman could benefit from Pakistan’s capabilities to achieve the economic diversification goals outlined in Vision 2040.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to expanding economic cooperation with Oman, Jam Kamal emphasized the long-term benefits of strengthening trade and investment ties.
Omani Minister Qais Al Yousef acknowledged Pakistan’s strategic role in regional trade, citing historical ties and geographical proximity as key factors that position Pakistan as the most efficient trade route to Central Asian states. He expressed Oman’s keen interest in strengthening economic partnerships with Pakistan and expanding trade and investment opportunities across key sectors.
Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working together on economic initiatives, expanding trade, and strengthening investment relations.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision to explore new avenues for mutual growth.
The Omani delegation included Saleh Saeed Meisan, Ibtisam Ahmed Al Farooqi, Rashid Saeed Rashdi, Khalid Ali Al Habsi, and Suhaib Amir Al Soufi.
The Pakistani delegation comprised Ambassador Syed Naveed Safdar Bukhari, Ishrat Bhatti, and Talha Khan.
