Pakistan Offers To Modernize Sudan’s Ports: Junaid Anwar Chaudhry

Pakistan Offers To Modernize Sudan’s Ports: Junaid Anwar Chaudhry

Pakistan has offered technical assistance to Sudan for the modernization of its ports, expressing commitment to upgrading its maritime infrastructure and strengthening regional trade connectivity.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry made the offer during a meeting with Sudan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Saleh Muhammad Ahmed Muhammad Siddiq, in Islamabad.

During the meeting, both sides discussed cooperation in maritime development, port modernization, logistics improvement, and industrial collaboration.

The Sudanese Ambassador stated that Khartoum wishes to establish a direct shipping line with Pakistani ports to strengthen trade and logistics ties between the two countries. He noted that a dedicated shipping route would enhance the supply chain across East Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, while also reducing transportation costs.

Several landlocked African countries — including Chad, the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, and Uganda — rely heavily on Sudan’s Red Sea ports, especially Port Sudan, for access to global trade routes.

Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry welcomed Sudan’s proposal and assured Pakistan’s full cooperation in the modernization of Sudanese ports. He mentioned that Pakistan recently approved the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025, under which the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is integrating advanced technologies into port management.

“We are transitioning our ports to AI-based systems to improve efficiency and reduce operational delays,” said Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.
“Pakistan can also assist Sudan in adopting similar technologies, particularly for Port Sudan, which handles about 90% of the country’s international trade.”

The Minister emphasized that modern and technology-driven ports are vital for economic growth and trade expansion, and Pakistan’s experience in automated port operations, smart logistics, and digital management could greatly benefit Sudan.

He further added that Sudan holds immense potential as a regional trade hub connecting Pakistan with Central Asia, East Africa, and other regions, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional integration under its Blue Economy Vision 2030.

The Sudanese Ambassador expressed interest in expanding trade beyond the maritime sector — particularly in pharmaceuticals, agricultural machinery, and industrial equipment — noting Sudan’s growing need for tractors and related tools to boost agricultural production.

Minister Chaudhry proposed the establishment of a joint tractor assembly project in Gwadar Free Zone, which would not only cater to Sudan’s domestic needs but also serve other African markets.

The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to maintain close coordination between their respective ministries and to develop practical mechanisms for collaboration.