ISLAMABAD: A report by Pakistan Balochistan News says that Pakistan and China have jointly launched the Maritime Cooperation Action Plan for 2025 to 2029, aimed at transforming Gwadar into a pivotal regional trade hub and enhancing maritime collaboration.
Under this strategic plan, the expansion of Gwadar Port, the completion of Free Zone Phase-II, and the integration of the new Gwadar International Airport with the port are key objectives.
The initiative also envisions establishing a China-Gwadar-Africa Shipping Corridor, along with the development of green port infrastructure and transit facilities, ensuring streamlined access to Central Asia, Afghanistan, and the Middle East.
Pakistan Balochistan News
Furthermore, the plan includes the setup of 15 new industries and aims to generate 25,000 new employment opportunities.
According to Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Junaid Chaudhry, this step will strengthen Pakistan’s position as an emerging economic and trade hub in the region.
The port city of Gwadar is a linchpin of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is itself a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Over the past decade, Gwadar has witnessed significant infrastructure development, yet operational challenges and regional instability have slowed progress.
This new 2025–2029 action plan represents a renewed commitment by both nations to accelerate progress, deepen economic ties, and integrate Gwadar more firmly into regional and global trade networks.
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The strategic location of Gwadar offers China direct access to the Arabian Sea, reducing dependency on longer shipping routes, while giving Pakistan the potential to become a key player in trans-regional trade and logistics.
