Pakistan accelerates Gwadar development; links infrastructure with inclusive growth, trade expansion

Islamabad: In a major push to enhance Pakistan’s strategic connectivity and economic integration, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the Prime Minister’s Committee on the Operationalisation of Gwadar Port.

The meeting brought together high-level officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Maritime Affairs, Interior, Commerce, and provincial departments to streamline efforts for transforming Gwadar into a regional trade and logistics hub.

The session focused on fast-tracking infrastructure development, finalizing an integrated action plan, and ensuring inclusive economic participation from local communities—particularly the fishing sector.

Highlighting the region’s geostrategic value, Ahsan Iqbal proposed establishing a Pakistan-Gulf trade corridor via the Gwadar–Muscat maritime route. With just 12 hours separating Gwadar and Muscat by sea, he said the port has immense untapped potential to enhance trade with GCC countries and beyond.

The minister emphasized that development must not bypass local communities. He called for integration of the fisheries and blue economy sectors into national frameworks like the Uraan Pakistan Export Enhancement Strategy and directed that a comprehensive business plan for Gwadar be developed by engaging expert consultants.

He stressed the need for completing critical connectivity projects such as the N-85, Coastal Highway, M-8 Motorway, and ML-4 railway line. He also urged early implementation of the Safe City project and directed authorities to prioritize security and livability, including the development of a secure residential zone for foreign investors, modeled after cities like Sharm El Sheikh and Dammam.

During the meeting, the minister also reviewed land allocation issues, stating that activation of the 40-year development agreement must be preceded by the formal transfer of land—pending for over a decade. He directed immediate resolution in the national interest.

Urban planning and mining infrastructure were also discussed, with Iqbal calling for Gwadar to be developed as a dedicated mining port equipped with ore-handling capabilities to support Balochistan’s mineral wealth.

On a related note, the minister inaugurated the International Centre of Excellence for Sirah Studies at the International Islamic University Islamabad. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the International Sirah Conference, he termed the center a milestone for the Muslim world, calling it a starting point for intellectual and moral revival.

Minister Iqbal emphasized that the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) provides a comprehensive framework for justice, peace, social cohesion, and governance. “This is not merely an academic initiative; it is a movement to reclaim the ethical and intellectual leadership of Islam in the modern world,” he stated.

He reiterated that knowledge, infrastructure, inclusive governance, and a secure environment must go hand in hand for Pakistan to emerge as a modern, compassionate, and economically empowered state.