Pakistan, Romania Eye Stronger Maritime Partnership

By Nazir Siyal

KARACHI: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Romanian Ambassador Dr. Dan Stoenescu discussed closer cooperation between Karachi Port and Romania’s Port of Constanța, focusing on logistics integration, trade facilitation, and regional connectivity.

Rear Admiral Atiq-ur-Rehman, Acting Chairman of the Karachi Port Trust, also attended the meeting.

The minister said Pakistan aims to play a bigger role in global maritime trade by developing linkages connecting the Middle East, Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa. He emphasized the potential of connecting Pakistani ports with the Port of Constanța to expand access to European markets and strengthen the blue economy.

Junaid Chaudhry noted that Pakistan’s number of operational ports is expected to increase to six in the coming years, with current ports reaching full capacity before 2047. Strengthening maritime infrastructure and connectivity, he said, is key to transforming Pakistan into a major industrial and trade hub.

Both sides agreed to explore training and exchange programs in maritime safety, port operations, environmental management, and digital logistics. The minister stressed that developing a skilled workforce to manage next-generation port systems is central to Pakistan’s modernization plans.

Ambassador Stoenescu praised the quality of Pakistani exports and expressed Romania’s interest in importing sports goods, surgical instruments, and agricultural products. He reaffirmed Romania’s commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with Pakistan, calling maritime cooperation a practical path to regional prosperity.

The talks also covered opportunities for private sector participation and investment in port infrastructure. Both sides expressed optimism about opening new trade routes and reinforcing Pakistan’s position as a regional maritime hub.

Junaid Chaudhry said stronger partnerships with European nations like Romania would help diversify Pakistan’s export markets while promoting regional stability through economic cooperation and innovation.

Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to expand collaboration across economic, educational, and cultural sectors, marking a new chapter in Pakistan–Romania relations.