ISLAMABAD, Oct 15 (APP): Pakistan and Egypt have agreed to deepen cooperation in the maritime and industrial sectors, aiming to expand joint ventures and boost their blue economies.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Egypt’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan on Wednesday.
Both sides underscored their commitment to strengthening economic and maritime ties, discussing opportunities for collaboration in port development, shipping, logistics, and industrial ventures. The talks focused on tapping into the growing potential of the blue economy that is seen as a key engine for sustainable growth and regional trade.
Junaid Chaudhry said Pakistan was determined to improve regional connectivity through a network of roads, railways, and sea routes. “We are working hard to establish stronger links with Central Asian states and East African countries, and we can further enhance maritime connectivity with Egypt,” he said. Outlining Pakistan’s broader economic diplomacy goals, the minister proposed setting up “Pakistan Houses” in Africa, Central Asia, and Egypt to promote trade, investment, and business partnerships.
He said Pakistan would also welcome similar centers from other countries to strengthen mutual economic collaboration.Ambassador, Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan welcomed Pakistan’s initiatives and said Egypt could share its experience in maritime management, particularly in operating the Suez Canal’s free zones.
He offered Egypt’s support in developing similar frameworks and joint ventures in Pakistan’s maritime sector.The envoy also praised the quality and competitiveness of Pakistani exports including spices, pharmaceuticals, leather goods, wooden crafts, and rice, and expressed hope that bilateral trade would continue to grow across diverse sectors.Both sides agreed that closer cooperation in maritime and industrial development could strengthen economic relations and foster greater regional integration across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.