First-ever direct maritime link: Pakistan’s cargo vessel reaches Bangladesh port

ISLAMABAD: The cargo vessel that left Karachi port last week arrived at Bangladesh’s Chittagong Port on Wednesday, establishing first-ever direct maritime link between the two countries. The diplomatic sources confirmed the development, terming it “positive” and “pleasant”.

Carrying a diverse array of goods with an estimated 2,300 TEUs of capacity, the vessel’s voyage highlights growing demand for direct trade between the two countries, said the authorities in Bangladesh through their release on Wednesday.

Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof termed the direct shipping route a major step forward in enhancing bilateral trade and business ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh besides boosting a more integrated and trade network across the region.

Referring to the arrival of the cargo vessel, he said that the initiative will not only accelerate the existing trade flows but also promote new opportunities for businesses on both sides.

The Pakistani high commissioner also proposed launching direct shipping transport between Pakistan and Bangladesh and said, “The system will help to take forward the eco-social relations of the two countries.”