ISLAMABAD, MAR 18 /DNA/ – The PAJCCI’s stakeholders meeting initiative reached the next destination of Gwadar, to explore the potential, understand the strategic importance of Pakistan’s second deep sea port and its utility in increasing trade with region including transit trade with Afghanistan and CAR. This meeting is part of PAJCCI’s commitment to connect all chambers with Afghanistan business community and to strengthen B2B relationship between Pakistan & Afghanistan.

President Gawadar Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) appreciated the efforts of PAJCCI specially Zubair Motiwala; Chairman PAJCCI, for continuously working for business community and socio-economic uplift of Pakistan by connecting & collaborating with diverse stakeholders and government entities across the border.

Motiwala iterated that Gawadar is the future of Pakistan and is land of opportunity. The current volume of 550Mn of trade can be increased by efficiently deploying infrastructure, provision of cheap and green electricity, mobile & internet connectivity, roads, service areas on borders, establishing banking network and strengthening security. He said that the economic zone is only offering rental property, which is not attractive for potential investors in the development of industrial areas. The policy should provide the provision of first right to purchase after three years which will consolidate the investors interest in long term projects and Pakistan will then fully realize the potential of developing port along side industrial and commercial zone. The electricity proposed cost of PKR 50 per unit is not feasible hence government should establish solar, wind and hydro power projects which will ensure sustainable trading while providing affordable infrastructure to investors and local population. Such measures will increase employment in the area and open trading routes to the world beyond.

PAJCCI delegation also visited PAK-IRAN border crossing, met with Customs and other government entities operating in Gawadar. The delegation showed deep concern on the non-availability of electricity, internet & mobile services connectivity, absence of service areas for people waiting for immigration and security checks while Iran side has all the facilities and infrastructure. The queues of people waiting for crossing the border has no shades and people suffer scorching heat. Delegation requested government of Pakistan to provide basic services at border crossing for trade and pedestrians which is critical in establishing this area as major trading post.

Motiwala said that Gawadar can become one of the major transit hubs for region and especially for transit trade with Afghanistan via Chaman border, the need is to develop supportive infrastructure and viable investment policy.

The meeting was attended by members of business community, office bearers of Gwadar Chamber, Official of Gwadar Development Authority and Captain Gul Muhammad; Director Operations Gawadar Port Authority.