Karachi (TDI): Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwaar Chaudhry on Wednesday said that Denmark’s $2 billion investment in Pakistan’s port sector was moving forward, with Danish investors actively cooperating with the government to accelerate the process.
Talking to media during his introductory visit to Port Qasim, the minister underlined that Port Qasim’s land will be allocated strictly for industrial purposes and will be sold transparently to genuine investors.
Real estate dealings on the port’s land will be discontinued, and any allottees failing to establish industries within the allotted time will have their allotments cancelled.
A new valuation of Port Qasim’s land will be carried out according to regulations.
The minister invited investors and Sindh government to join hands with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs in improving Karachi’s infrastructure.
He stressed that the Ministry is committed to improving the city’s infrastructure but emphasized that such projects require the cooperation of the Sindh government.
Read More: Pakistan, Denmark Pledge Stronger Maritime Ties
Junaid Anwaar Chaudhry pledged to expedite and improve the ministry’s projects and processes on a fast track, including devising a clear policy for lands under Port Qasim, KPT, and PNSC.
He said that promotion opportunities will be provided for lower-grade officers in the ministry, and external expertise will only be brought in when essential.
He also confirmed that PNSC ships, having completed their operational life, were sold and are now being replaced with relatively newer vessels through better agreements.
Read More: Pakistan, Denmark Focus on Climate Change Mitigation
The inclusion of these new ships is likely to enhance PNSC’s competitiveness.
He added that the ministry has asked for plans from its subsidiaries, with monthly progress reviews would be carried out.
