Press Release

Gwadar to emerge as global trade hub

Former National Security Adviser general (retd) Nasir Khan Janjua said that the true importance of Balochistan has not yet been fully understood, even though the province has the potential to take Pakistan to new heights of development. He said that Gwadar and Chabahar are gateways to Asia, and in the future, global trade will increasingly move towards Pakistan, especially Gwadar.He said that while Punjab has played a backbone role in supporting the country, and other provinces have also contributed, Pakistan’s real economic growth is linked with Balochistan. The opportunities emerging in Gwadar will boost business activity and strengthen the national economy.

He was speaking at a session held at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol welcomed the guests. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between LCCI and Gwadar Gymkhana. Chairman Gwadar Gymkhana Ahmed Iqbal Baloch, former LCCI President Muhammad Ali Mian, and Executive Committee members Firdous Nisar, Shouban Akhtar, Ahad Ameen Malik, Rana Nisar, and Convener Atif Khan were also present. General (retd) Nasir Khan Janjua further said that Pakistan holds a very important geographical position, while India, despite being a large country, is geographically constrained and will have to recognize Pakistan’s importance for access to Central Asia and Europe. He added that Pakistan has made many sacrifices regarding Afghanistan and has now clearly conveyed that balanced and respectful relations with Pakistan are in everyone’s interest. He said that just like it was once said during World War II that all roads lead to London, in the future, global trade routes will lead to Pakistan and pass through it. He described Gwadar as a great blessing and said it will become a game changer for the entire region.

LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol said that Punjab is the most populous province while Balochistan is the largest in area and full of economic potential. He said the strategic importance of Gwadar Port is increasing and it will play a key role in Pakistan’s economy in the future. He added that Pakistan’s defense capability is strong, and recent successes show that when all institutions work together, the country progresses. A strong economy is the foundation of strong defense, and with cooperation between the business community, political leadership, and armed forces, Pakistan can move forward.

He also highlighted that there are vast opportunities for investment in Gwadar, Balochistan, and other sectors. Promoting tourism in Balochistan could make it one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Chairman Gwadar Gymkhana Ahmed Iqbal Baloch said that Balochistan has always had great potential, although hostile elements have tried to hinder its development. However, conditions are improving and development is accelerating. He said Gwadar is located on a key global trade route and can rightly be called a “gold mine.”

He added that a new wave of development has begun in Gwadar, and international interest is increasing. He expressed commitment to promoting Gwadar and Balochistan through cooperation, investment, and stronger connections. Nasir Janjua also said that Pakistan has faced many challenges over the decades but remains strong. He noted that Gwadar’s importance is further enhanced by its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz and major global energy routes. If oil-producing countries start routing their shipments through Gwadar, Pakistan could emerge as a major economic power in the region.