Pakistan Pitches Port Plan to U.S. After Trump Meeting – Report
Advisers to Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, have reportedly pitched a plan to build and operate a new port on the Arabian Sea according to a report in Financial Times. The proposal was shared with U.S. officials recently, following a high-level meeting involving Munir and President Donald Trump.
Strategic Location & Purpose
The plan suggests the port could be established in Pasni, Balochistan, giving Washington access to Pakistan’s mineral-rich western regions. The concept includes linking the port to inland mineral zones via rail infrastructure. The proposal reportedly excludes any direct military base use of the port facility.
Motivations & Dynamics
This initiative is seen as part of Pakistan’s attempt to boost economic diplomacy and diversify strategic partnerships beyond China. It also surfaces amid broader outreach to the U.S. for investment and infrastructure collaboration. The port idea, however, is not confirmed as official government policy and remains in the planning stage.
Uncertainty & Next Steps
Officials note that the proposal was floated informally and has not been formally submitted through governmental channels. Key questions about financing, governance, environmental impact, and regional implications remain unresolved. Whether this plan moves forward will depend on approval from the Pakistani government, U.S. responses, and alignment with broader foreign policy goals.
