ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, recently held a meeting with the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan, Iqbal Hussain Khan. The discussion centered around the potential introduction of a ferry service linking Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Both officials underlined their dedication to enhancing maritime collaboration between the two nations. Minister Chaudhry highlighted that the proposed ferry service could play a pivotal role in boosting tourism and trade, fostering stronger ties.
The meeting also delved into plans for establishing a direct shipping line to connect the two countries. Minister Chaudhry noted that such an initiative would significantly strengthen bilateral trade by introducing a more efficient and direct transportation route. He further emphasized that improving maritime connectivity across the region is critical for achieving long-term economic stability.
A shared commitment to deepening trade and economic cooperation was reaffirmed by both parties, alongside the aspiration to transform the historically strong ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh into a thriving economic alliance.
Last month, Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry inaugurated a new ferry terminal at Karachi Port Trust (KPT), describing it as a milestone development aimed at promoting regional and coastal tourism while reinforcing Pakistan’s blue economy.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the minister expressed pride in realizing his vision of launching modern, safe, and sustainable maritime passenger transport in the country. During the event, he announced the soft launch of Pakistan’s first-ever international ferry service, which will operate between Karachi and Chabahar Port in Iran.
As detailed by officials, operations for the ferry service are scheduled to begin in the third week of January. The inaugural voyage will feature a ferry departing from Karachi with up to 240 passengers onboard for Chabahar, with the journey estimated to take 12 to 14 hours. The service plans to operate three round trips weekly, with a round-trip ticket priced at Rs50,000 per passenger.
