Pakistan and Iraq have signed a landmark agreement to establish a ferry service between Gwadar and Umm Qassar ports, aiming to bolster trade, facilitate religious travel, and strengthen bilateral relations.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU), signed after a meeting between Pakistan’s Maritime Affairs Minister, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and an Iraqi delegation, marks a significant step in enhancing maritime cooperation between the two nations.

The minister hailed the pact as a “new chapter,” emphasizing its potential to build upon existing economic and religious ties. Last year alone, over 88,000 Pakistani pilgrims journeyed to Iraq for Ashura, highlighting the demand for efficient travel options.

The ferry service is expected to streamline the movement of pilgrims and traders, offering a more convenient and potentially cost-effective alternative to existing routes. It is also anticipated to stimulate commercial activity, boosting bilateral trade currently valued at $54.29 million in Pakistani exports and $145.46 million in Iraqi imports.

Minister Chaudhry identified Pakistan’s capacity to supply potassium sulfate from its Gwadar Free Zone facility, along with other goods like medicines, meat, and rice. He also proposed increasing Pakistani oil imports from Iraq.

In return, the Iraqi Deputy Head of Mission, Abdulqadir Sulyman Alhimiri, voiced strong support for the initiative, recognizing the maritime sector’s vital role in future collaboration. He affirmed Iraq’s backing for Pakistan’s bid in the upcoming International Maritime Organization (IMO) elections.

The agreement aligns with Pakistan’s broader blue economy strategy, which seeks to expand port activity and strengthen maritime supply chains. Similar ferry routes are also being explored with Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, with the aim of creating a robust regional maritime network.

The minister emphasized the potential for the ferry link to serve as a crucial corridor for Iraq to access broader Asian markets, reducing transportation expenses and optimizing logistics.

Both sides have agreed to further discussions, with technical teams set to conduct feasibility studies and assess investment requirements. The proposed ferry service represents a significant opportunity to reshape Pakistan-Iraq connectivity, fostering economic growth, tourism, and regional integration.