A high-level delegation from the Republic of Uzbekistan has visited the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) to explore potential investment opportunities in Pakistan’s maritime and logistics sector.
The thirteen-member delegation was led by Gulamov Shokhrukh Khasanovich, Deputy Minister for Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan.
The delegation was warmly received by Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed, SI (M), S. Bt (Retd), along with senior officials of the port authority.
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During the visit, the Chairman KPT delivered a detailed presentation outlining KPT’s existing infrastructure, operational capacity, and ongoing development projects.
The session was attended by senior ministry officials, Chairman Port Qasim Authority Rear Admiral Syed Moazzam Ilyas HI (M) (Retd), and private terminal operators from both major Karachi ports.
Special focus was given to logistics-driven investment opportunities, including improved rail and road connectivity, expansion of terminal operations, and modernization of port facilities.
The Uzbek delegation showed strong interest in these initiatives and engaged in extensive discussions, seeking clarity on operational frameworks, investment mechanisms, and long-term trade prospects.
Chairman KPT also briefed the delegation on the proposed Marine Business District, a major development aimed at enhancing commercial activity around the port.
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Additionally, he highlighted KPT’s involvement in the ML-1 railway project in collaboration with Pakistan Railways, describing it as a critical component of future regional connectivity.
He emphasized the strategic vision of linking Pakistan’s ports with Central Asian Republics (CARs) through rail networks, creating a seamless trade corridor connecting Uzbekistan’s industrial centers with global markets via Karachi.
In this regard, Uzbek businesses were invited to consider operating dedicated off-dock terminals at Karachi Port to streamline their import and export operations.
As part of the visit, the delegation toured South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPTL) and Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTML).
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In his concluding remarks, Deputy Minister Khasanovich expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality and comprehensive briefing by KPT management.
He noted that the visit provided valuable insights into Pakistan’s maritime potential and future cooperation opportunities.
The visit concluded with the exchange of souvenirs and a group photograph, marking a positive step toward strengthening Pakistan-Uzbekistan trade and investment relations.
