Hormuz hurdle no barrier to Pakistan-Kuwait trade

Pakistan has successfully navigated the challenges posed by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods to Kuwait through the establishment of alternative transportation routes. Ambassador Dr. Zafar Iqbal confirmed that shipments reached Kuwait via Saudi Arabia during the period of airspace closure, and direct shipping lines between Pakistan and Kuwait have now returned to normal.

Ambassador Iqbal stated that the Pakistani government is actively pursuing diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions and encourage negotiations among all parties involved. He expressed optimism regarding potential progress, noting recent positive indicators for the resumption of American-Iranian talks and remarks from the US President about the possibility of renewed negotiations. He stressed the regional implications of military escalation, emphasizing Pakistan's commitment to diplomatic efforts to prevent further deterioration.

Pakistan's Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Field Marshal are leading continuous initiatives to reduce tensions, maintaining close communication with Kuwaiti leadership. The defense cooperation between Kuwait and Pakistan, which dates back to the 1980s, remains robust, encompassing ongoing military training programs, expertise exchange, and technical collaboration.

Bilateral trade between the two nations has surpassed $1.5 billion this year, with over $1 billion attributed to oil imports from Kuwait to Pakistan. Kuwait's non-oil exports to Pakistan are also experiencing significant growth. Ambassador Iqbal affirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for Kuwait, particularly during challenging times. The Pakistan Fruit Week event, showcasing premium Pakistani mango varieties, highlights the strong economic and cultural ties between the two countries.