Pakistan and Iraq Sign MoU to Launch Ferry Service and Boost Maritime Cooperation

Islamabad: Pakistan and Iraq have agreed to enhance their maritime cooperation by signing a Memorandum of Understanding to launch a ferry service between Umm Qassar Port in Iraq and Gwadar Port in Pakistan. This initiative aims to explore new sea routes and strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

According to Radio Pakistan, the agreement was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and a three-member delegation from the Iraqi Embassy in Islamabad. The Iraqi delegation was led by Deputy Head of Mission Abdulqadir Sulyman Alhimiri.

Junaid Anwar Chaudhry welcomed the initiative, highlighting that the new ferry connection can leverage the shared cultural and religious bonds between Pakistan and Iraq, while also unlocking business opportunities. The initiative comes at a time of increasing cross-border religious travel, with over 88,000 Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iraq for the Ashura observance last year. Both countries view this as a strong foundation for establishing regular sea links catering to pilgrims and traders.

The Minister informed the delegation that Pakistan is also working on setting up ferry routes with Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council countries. He emphasized that similar arrangements with Iraq could complement these plans, fostering a regional maritime network that meets economic and strategic goals.

Chaudhry proposed expanding trade by boosting Pakistani exports of medicines, meat, and rice to Iraq while increasing Iraqi oil imports into Pakistan. He noted that this could help elevate bilateral trade beyond current levels. He also underscored the potential for increased port activity and supply chain expansion under Pakistan’s blue economy strategy.

Furthermore, Chaudhry highlighted that Pakistan can meet Iraq’s Potassium Sulphate needs, as a manufacturing facility is already present in the Gwadar Free Zone. He also sought Iraq’s support ahead of Pakistan’s planned participation in the International Maritime Organization elections, receiving assurance of backing from the deputy mission head.

Iraqi Deputy Head of Mission Abdulqadir Sulyman Alhimiri expressed strong support for the minister’s proposals, calling the maritime sector a key enabler for future collaboration.