Oman, Pakistan move to link Sohar and Gwadar ports

Oman and Pakistan are exploring closer cooperation between the ports of Sohar and Gwadar, as part of broader efforts to enhance maritime connectivity, trade, and logistics links between the two nations. This potential collaboration was recently discussed during a meeting between Sami Abdullah Salim Al Khanjari, the Consul General of Oman in Pakistan, and Noor Ul Haq Baloch, the Chairman of Gwadar Port Authority.

Both sides are considering the idea of developing the two ports as sister ports, according to Pakistani media reports.

Pakistan's Ambassador to Oman, H E Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, confirmed these talks, stating that they demonstrate a positive effort by both countries to strengthen connectivity. He explained, "Connectivity is an important area where both sides are engaging with one another. We are looking at how to promote connectivity between the ports of Pakistan and Oman and strengthen logistics cooperation."

These discussions hold promise for boosting shipping links between the nations, opening up new avenues for trade, investment, and logistics cooperation, and creating stronger ties between the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Gulf markets, and Central Asia.

The talks also touched upon the possibility of establishing direct air connectivity between Gwadar and Oman via SalamAir, leveraging the newly constructed Gwadar International Airport. This could facilitate both business and passenger movement between the two countries. Additionally, there was interest in exploring Omani investment opportunities within the Gwadar Free Zone, particularly in logistics, warehousing, and fisheries.

Other areas being considered for cooperation include technical assistance in port management, dredging, digital port operations, and training and capacity-building for port personnel. Both nations are anticipated to work through their respective ministries to finalize a memorandum of understanding in the coming weeks, as per the reports from Muscat Daily.