ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iraq have agreed to launch a ferry service connecting Gwadar Port and Iraq’s Umm Qasr Port. This development follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a high-level meeting in Islamabad.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, held talks with a three-member Iraqi Embassy delegation led by Deputy Head of Mission Abdul Qadir Sulyman Alhimiri. Both sides emphasized strengthening maritime cooperation and exploring new sea routes.
Minister Chaudhry welcomed the move as a “new chapter” in bilateral relations. He said the ferry link would improve both passenger and cargo movement between the two countries. He also stressed the benefits for religious tourism, especially for Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iraq.
Highlighting Gwadar’s potential, the minister said Pakistan could supply potassium sulphate to Iraq. A production facility is already operating in the Gwadar Free Zone. He also requested Iraq’s support for Pakistan in the upcoming International Maritime Organization (IMO) elections.
The Iraqi delegation expressed full backing for Pakistan’s candidacy and affirmed the importance of maritime cooperation. They described the sector as vital for future trade and connectivity.
The planned ferry route could ease the journey for religious travelers. In 2024 alone, over 88,000 Pakistani pilgrims visited Iraq for Ashura. The ferry service is expected to serve both religious and commercial travelers.
Minister Chaudhry revealed that Pakistan is exploring similar links with Iran and GCC countries. A maritime corridor with Iraq would support this broader regional network, he said.
The two sides also discussed expanding trade. Pakistan aims to increase exports to Iraq, including medicines, rice, and meat. In return, it seeks more imports of Iraqi oil. In fiscal year 2024, trade between the countries stood at around $200 million, a figure analysts believe can grow.
Technical teams will now carry out feasibility studies to evaluate the ferry project’s cost and infrastructure needs. If successful, the route between Gwadar and Umm Qasr Port could boost regional trade and reduce transport costs.
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