Islamabad, November 24, 2025 – Pakistan has proposed a structured and long-term framework to deepen maritime cooperation with Bangladesh, aiming to enhance regional connectivity and strengthen collaboration in the global shipping sector.
The proposal was put forward by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry during a meeting in London with Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hussain, Adviser for Shipping to the Government of Bangladesh.
During the meeting, Minister Chaudhry outlined a comprehensive cooperation plan between the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) and the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC). The framework includes joint initiatives in container and bulk shipping services, technical and professional training programmes, enhanced maritime safety collaboration, and coordinated development of seafarers. He also highlighted the importance of reciprocal port-call facilitation and closer diplomatic engagement at senior levels.
The minister conveyed Pakistan’s goodwill and requested Bangladesh’s support for its candidature in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Category C elections. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s intention to reciprocate by supporting Bangladesh’s future candidatures as well. “Pakistan will positively support Bangladesh’s request for support in the IMO Category C elections,” he assured, underscoring Islamabad’s commitment to stronger cooperation in global maritime forums.
Junaid Chaudhry emphasized the need for broader institutional coordination between both countries at platforms such as the IMO, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and regional maritime groups. He noted that enhanced synergy would enable Pakistan and Bangladesh to play a more influential role in shaping global maritime policies.
The minister reiterated Pakistan’s earlier offer to make Karachi Port Trust (KPT) facilities available for Bangladeshi cargo, citing KPT’s expanding capacity, modernization efforts, and improved operational efficiencies as evidence of Pakistan’s readiness to support regional trade.
To sustain collaborative momentum, he proposed launching a Pakistan–Bangladesh Maritime Dialogue to regularly address port development, shipping sector reforms, the blue economy, fisheries, and emerging maritime challenges.
Both sides agreed to explore actionable steps for implementing the proposed initiatives and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing maritime cooperation for regional stability and economic growth.