Pakistan Proposes Ferry Service to Boost Trade and Religious Tourism with Iran

Islamabad: Pakistan and Iran on Saturday agreed to explore new avenues of cooperation in the blue economy through stronger maritime, road, and railway connectivity between the two neighbouring countries.

The understanding was reached during a high-level meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Iran’s Minister for Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh.

During the discussions, both ministers underscored the importance of regional connectivity to boost trade, investment, and people-to-people linkages. They also reviewed initiatives aimed at expanding maritime trade, developing port infrastructure, and improving logistical routes linking the two countries through sea, land, and rail networks.

Junaid Chaudhry proposed the launch of a ferry service between Pakistan and Iran, terming it a cost-effective and efficient transport alternative for both pilgrims and traders. He invited Iranian entrepreneurs and companies to operate the service, noting that Iran’s lower fuel costs could help keep fares affordable.

“Such a ferry service would not only enhance bilateral trade but also offer a cost-effective travel option for pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq,” Chaudhry said, adding that around 60,000 to 70,000 Pakistani pilgrims travelled to Iraq for Arbaeen by air in 2025, and that number could increase manifold with ferry options.

The minister also revealed that Pakistan plans to introduce a centralized pilgrim management policy next year, requiring all pilgrims to travel through registered tour operators for better coordination and safety. He stressed that Iran could derive substantial financial benefits from the growing flow of Pakistani pilgrims.

Iranian Minister Farzaneh Sadegh welcomed Pakistan’s proposals and emphasized the economic potential of the two countries’ ports, describing them as gateways for regional commerce.

“The ports of both countries are the financial strength of our economies,” she said. “By improving maritime and transport connectivity, we can open new horizons for regional trade and economic prosperity.”

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen maritime and transport cooperation as part of a broader effort to strengthen Pakistan–Iran relations and advance the blue economy in the region.