Pakistan Offers Bangladesh Access to Karachi Port in Push for Regional Economic Integration
Pakistan has extended a strategic offer to Bangladesh to use Karachi Port for trade with China and Central Asia, signaling a major breakthrough in regional cooperation. The proposal emerged during the 9th Pak-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting in Dhaka, co-chaired by Pakistan’s Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik and Bangladesh’s Adviser on Finance Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed.
This development represents a pragmatic shift in South Asian economic relations, focusing on connectivity, collaboration, and shared prosperity.
Key Outcomes of the JEC Meeting
Both sides explored ways to increase trade volumes, investment, and technical collaboration. The meeting covered 14 agenda items, emphasizing enhanced cooperation in trade, energy, IT, education, and tourism.
Pakistan proposed establishing direct flights between Karachi and Dhaka, reviving air connectivity after years of limited engagement. The two countries also signed an MoU between the Pakistan Halal Authority and Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute to facilitate mutual recognition of halal certifications.
Additionally, Pakistan announced 500 fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students and increased technical training seats from five to twenty-five annually.
Economic and Strategic Benefits
By granting Bangladesh access to Karachi Port, Pakistan seeks to promote inclusive trade routes that connect South Asia with China and Central Asia through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This initiative will significantly reduce transport costs and transit times for Bangladeshi exporters while boosting Pakistan’s logistics sector.
Experts view this proposal as a win-win arrangement, providing Bangladesh access to western trade corridors and giving Pakistan new opportunities to serve as a regional trade hub.
Shared Vision for Regional Growth
During the talks, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable economic growth, human development, and climate resilience. Pakistan emphasized its focus on green energy and digital transformation, offering Bangladesh opportunities for collaboration in solar and IT-based innovation projects.
Dr. Salehuddin appreciated Pakistan’s “forward-looking approach” and said enhanced trade cooperation would create new employment opportunities and strengthen the economic fabric of South Asia.
Strengthening Cultural and People-to-People Ties
Beyond economics, the two sides agreed to strengthen cultural and educational exchanges. Joint tourism initiatives are being considered to showcase the shared heritage of both nations. Islamabad and Dhaka also discussed easing visa procedures for business delegations to improve cross-border commerce.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s offer of Karachi Port access reflects a strategic effort to foster regional connectivity, economic interdependence, and trust. The move could pave the way for a new chapter of cooperation in South Asia—one that prioritizes prosperity over politics.
