Pakistan and Iran have initiated discussions to enhance cooperation in the blue economy by improving road, railway, and maritime connectivity. The talks took place during a high-level meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and Iran’s Minister for Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh.
Both sides emphasized the need to strengthen regional connectivity to boost trade, investment, and people-to-people relations. They discussed initiatives to improve maritime trade, port infrastructure, and logistical routes that link the two countries by sea, land, and rail.
Minister Chaudhry proposed launching a ferry service between Pakistan and Iran to provide an affordable and efficient transportation option for both pilgrims and traders. He highlighted that Iran’s lower fuel prices could help subsidize fares, making the service cost-effective for passengers. Chaudhry also noted that the ferry service could significantly increase the number of Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq.
“We expect the ferry service to not only boost bilateral trade but also provide a more economical travel option for pilgrims,” said Chaudhry. “In 2025, around 60,000 to 70,000 Pakistani pilgrims attended Arbaeen by air; the ferry service could increase those numbers several times.”
Chaudhry also shared plans to implement a centralized pilgrim management policy starting in 2025, which would require all pilgrims to travel through registered tour operators for improved safety and coordination.
Minister Sadegh welcomed the proposal, recognizing the potential of both countries’ ports as key economic assets. She emphasized the shared commitment to enhancing port-to-port cooperation and exploring new trade routes through the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf.
“Our ports are the financial strength of our economies,” she stated. “By improving maritime and transport connectivity, we can unlock new opportunities for regional trade and economic growth.”
Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties in the maritime and transport sectors, focusing on the blue economy to drive greater cooperation between Pakistan and Iran.
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