Pakistan & Ethiopia Explore Trilateral Maritime Trade Alliance

Pakistan and Ethiopia are considering a trilateral maritime alliance with Djibouti to enhance trade links. Technical consultations will shape a potential framework for regional connectivity.

Pakistan and Ethiopia have agreed to explore the formation of a trilateral maritime alliance, potentially including Djibouti, to enhance trade connectivity between Asia and Africa.

The understanding emerged during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Ethiopian Ambassador Dr Oumer Hussein, marking the envoy’s first official interaction since assuming office.

Both sides reviewed proposals aimed at expanding bilateral trade and strengthening economic cooperation, with particular focus on improving regional connectivity. The minister highlighted Pakistan’s growing emphasis on maritime engagement with African nations and proposed a three-country framework involving Pakistan, Ethiopia and Djibouti.

“Ethiopia, despite being landlocked, can significantly boost its trade capacity by utilising the Port of Djibouti under a structured arrangement,” the minister said, adding that the framework could later expand to include more countries.

Ambassador Hussein welcomed the proposal and underscored the need for technical consultations to develop a practical model. Officials from both sides were assigned to examine operational details.

He also acknowledged Pakistan’s “Look Africa” and “Engage Africa” policies, noting their role in fostering stronger regional partnerships.