Govt to turn Keti Bandar into deep-sea port

CM says project will unlock new opportunities for trade, investment

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday said the provincial government was committed to developing Keti Bandar as a deep-sea port, describing the project as a potential driver of economic activity, trade, investment and employment in the province's coastal areas.

In his message on World Maritime Day, the CM said the sea was fundamental to Pakistan's economy, trade and sustainable development, while Sindh's coastline and marine resources offered significant opportunities for growth.

"After Karachi Port and Port Qasim, we are committed to developing Keti Bandar as a deep-sea port," CM Shah said, adding that the project would give a new direction to the coastal economy. He said the development of Keti Bandar could generate new opportunities for economic activity, trade, employment and investment in Sindh's coastal belt.

CM Shah stressed the need for a safe, environmentally friendly and efficient maritime sector, saying Pakistan's sustainable development was closely linked to the effective use and protection of its marine resources.

He said modern technology and innovation could help turn marine resources into new avenues of economic growth, while greater emphasis was needed on skills development, training, technology and capacity-building in the maritime sector.

The CM also called for greater protection of coastal and marine ecosystems.