Pakistan proposes maritime cooperation framework with Bangladesh
The Pakistani ministry said both countries are significant maritime states and members of the Developing-8, yet have had limited structured cooperation between their national shipping lines. The proposed framework aims to broaden that relationship
Pakistan has proposed creating a formal maritime cooperation framework with Bangladesh to expand collaboration in shipping, ports and maritime safety, according to an official statement and people familiar with recent discussions.
"Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has proposed the establishment of a formal cooperation framework between the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) and the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) to deepen maritime collaboration between the two countries," the maritime ministry said in a statement. The proposal was conveyed during talks in London with Brig. Gen. (Retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hussain, Bangladesh's adviser for shipping.
The ministry said both countries are significant maritime states and members of the Developing-8, yet have had limited structured cooperation between their national shipping lines. The proposed framework aims to broaden that relationship, says Arab News PK.
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"The proposal ... envisions a comprehensive partnership encompassing joint container and bulk shipping services, technical training programs, cooperation on maritime safety and seafarer development, reciprocal port-call facilitation, and strengthened diplomatic and technical engagement at senior levels," the statement said.
Chaudhry also proposed launching a Pakistan–Bangladesh Maritime Dialogue, which would serve as a formal platform for regular discussions on port development, sector reforms, the blue economy, fisheries and emerging maritime issues.
Pakistan reiterated its earlier offer to make Karachi Port Trust (KPT) facilities available for Bangladeshi cargo. Officials have cited improving capacity, modernization efforts and reduced turnaround times at KPT as indicators of Pakistan's readiness to support wider regional shipping flows.
The ministry said Pakistan intends to strengthen coordination with Bangladesh in international maritime bodies. "Pakistan will positively support Bangladesh's request for support in the IMO Category C elections," Chaudhry said in the statement. Islamabad is also seeking reciprocal backing and deeper cooperation at the International Maritime Organization, the International Labour Organization and regional maritime groupings on seafarer-related issues.
Officials expect that closer coordination would help both countries expand regional trade routes, shape global maritime policy discussions and advance shared interests in shipping, port development and seafarer welfare.
