President Calls For Integrated Development Of Keti Bunder Port With Focus On Connectivity, Local Livelihoods
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th Aug, 2026) President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday called for an integrated approach to the proposed development of Keti Bunder Port, stressing that the project should be supported by reliable road connectivity, power and water supply, industrial infrastructure and other essential facilities.
The president was speaking during a presentation on the proposed development of Keti Bunder Port by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC). He welcomed the Chinese delegation and appreciated China’s continued interest in supporting Pakistan’s infrastructure and maritime development.
He noted that Keti Bunder holds significant potential as an additional maritime gateway, strengthening Pakistan's port and logistics network and fostering greater connectivity and trade. Emphasising the need for close technical coordination, he also stressed environmental sustainability as a key consideration, particularly protecting the Indus Delta ecosystem and local fishing communities' interests and livelihoods.
He encouraged continued technical engagement to refine the master plan and identify an appropriate implementation and financing framework.
The Chinese delegation presented the Conceptual Master Plan for Keti Bunder Port, outlining a new deep-water maritime gateway with multiple terminals, logistics, and supporting infrastructure. Phase I development includes a multi-purpose terminal with a 500-metre quay, estimated to cost approximately US$522.34 million in preliminary engineering.
The Chinese delegation consisted of:
- Wu Ping, Chief Representative of CHEC in Pakistan
- Wang Zongde, Head of Marketing Department
- Mr Xu Tielin, Engineer
- Ali Raza, GM of Strategy and Marketing
Additionally, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Senators Saleem Mandviwala and Sherry Rehman, Sindh Minister for Energy Nasir Hussain Shah, Special Assistant to the CM for Investment & Public Private Partnership Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar, and Chief Secretary Sindh Syed Asif Hyder Shah attended the meeting.