Pakistan eyes stronger trade, food security ties with Kuwait

Arab Times

2 days ago

KUWAIT CITY, July 29: Pakistani Ambassador to Kuwait Dr. Zafar Iqbal revealed that his country and Kuwait are currently discussing the establishment of a direct shipping line between Gwadar Port in Pakistan and Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port in Kuwait. In an interview with the newspaper, Iqbal affirmed that this project will address shortages, reduce costs, and strengthen the position of Kuwait as a regional logistics hub. He said Pakistan is keen on developing the logistical connectivity between the two countries as part of efforts to support food security and diversify supply chains. He added that his country has agricultural and industrial resources to make it a strategic partner of Kuwait. He disclosed that Pakistani exports to Kuwait reached about $193 million from July 2024 to June 2025, while imports from Kuwait exceeded $1.5 billion, specifically petroleum products and chemicals. He also stated that the Pakistani community in Kuwait is estimated at 100,000 individuals who are known for their discipline and dedication at work; serving in various sectors such as health, education, construction and services. He believes there is huge potential for academic cooperation between the universities of the two countries. Following is an excerpt of the interview:
Question: How do you assess the nature of the current political relationship between Kuwait and Pakistan? Is there regular direct communication between the two leaderships?
Answer: The relationship between Pakistan and Kuwait is characterized by strong fraternal ties, mutual respect and shared values. The leaderships of the two countries maintain close contact and regularly exchange messages on issues of mutual interest. In recent months, several contacts have taken place at the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister levels; thereby, strengthening bilateral relations.
Q: Does Pakistan cooperate with Kuwait on common security issues, especially in light of regional challenges like terrorism and human trafficking?
A: Yes, Pakistan and Kuwait share concerns about regional and global security. We work together to address crossborder challenges. Both sides believe in the importance of strengthening institutional cooperation and intelligence sharing for the benefit of both countries and in accordance with international standards.
Q: What is Pakistan's position on regional tensions? What role can Islamabad play as a nuclear power with balanced relations with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Iran?
A: Pakistan believes in the principles of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and dialogue. We consistently advocate de-escalation and engagement in diplomacy as the best path toward resolving tensions in the Gulf region. As a trusted friend of Kuwait and other Gulf states, we support Kuwaiti initiatives aimed at healing the rift and strengthening Gulf unity. We appreciate the wise approach of Kuwait under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah.
Q: How do you view Kuwait's efforts in regional mediation? Do you consider Pakistan a potential partner in regional security efforts?
A: Kuwait has long been a beacon of peace, moderation and diplomacy. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has exerted tremendous efforts in mediation and promoting harmony in the region. Pakistan fully supports these initiatives and considers itself a natural partner in any efforts aimed at ensuring peace and prosperity in the region.
Q: What is the current value of the trade volume between the two countries? What are the main goods and services that both sides are focusing on?
A: Pakistan's exports to Kuwait from July 2024 to June 2025 amounted to around $193 million -- a remarkable increase compared to the previous year. Pakistani exports to Kuwait include food, textiles, surgical instruments and leather; while Kuwait's exports to Pakistan are mainly petroleum products and chemicals, valued at more than $1.5 billion in the last fiscal year.
Q: Are there any Pakistani investment in Kuwait or vice versa at present? What are the obstacles that Kuwaiti investors are facing now?
A: Pakistani companies continue to establish their presence in Kuwait; particularly in the services, food and retail sectors. On the other hand, Kuwait has always been the reliable investment partner of Pakistan. One example is the Pakistan- Kuwait Investment Company (PKIC). Major Kuwaiti companies like Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC), Enertech and a number of fintech and infrastructure companies are currently investing in the Pakistani economy or exploring new opportunities. To ease foreign investment procedures, the Pakistani government established the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to provide a comprehensive platform that expedites procedures, removes barriers, and provides direct support in sectors such as agriculture, energy, information technology and mining. We welcome Kuwaiti investments in Pakistan.
Q: How can Kuwait benefit from the agricultural and industrial resources of Pakistan?
A: Pakistan has fertile agricultural lands and a developed industrial base, making it a strategic partner in supporting the efforts of Kuwait to achieve food security and diversify supply chains. We can provide fresh food products, rice, pulses, and frozen and chilled halal meat; in addition to the possibility of exporting live sheep to Kuwait. We are keen on developing logistical connectivity between the two countries. Discussions are underway to establish a direct shipping line between Gwadar and Mubarak Al-Kabeer ports. This project aims to reduce shipping period, lower costs, and strengthen Kuwait's position as a regional logistics hub.
Q: How large is the Pakistani community in Kuwait? How do you assess their situation?
A: The Pakistani community in Kuwait includes around 100,000 people. They are known for their discipline, dedication and contributions to various sectors like health, education, construction and services. We express our gratitude to the Kuwaiti leadership for taking care of this community.
Q: Does the Pakistani community face challenges? How do you deal with them?
A: Although the majority has integrated positively; some challenges, such as labor disputes or residency issues, may arise from time to time. We constantly coordinate with the Ministry of Interior and the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) to address these issues and protect the interests of citizens.
Q: Do you monitor labor conditions and coordinate with Kuwaiti authorities in this regard?
A: The Embassy of Pakistan is in constant contact with the relevant Kuwaiti authorities to ensure fair working conditions and legal protection for Pakistani workers. We thank the Kuwaiti authorities for their cooperation.
Q: How do you evaluate the level of cultural and academic exchange between the two countries?
A: The two countries have a long history of cultural and educational exchanges. In the past, many Kuwaitis studied at Pakistani universities, particularly in the fields of Medicine and Engineering. We welcome the resumption of these exchanges. We encourage Kuwaiti students to benefit from our world-class academic institutions. In the same manner, we are expanding study opportunities for Pakistani students in Kuwait.
Q: Do you have any initiatives to promote the Urdu language or Pakistani culture in Kuwait?
A: The embassy supports several initiatives; such as cultural events, Urdu language classes and school activities. We look forward to expanding this cooperation with the support of Kuwaiti institutions.
Q: Is there potential for cooperation between universities in the field of scientific research and technology?
A: here is significant potential for academic cooperation in the fields of Engineering, Information Technology, Medicine and Agriculture. We hope to launch joint research programs and faculty exchange.
Q: What is Pakistan's position on the recent developments in Palestine? Is there coordination with Kuwait within the framework of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation?
A: Pakistan fully supports the rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination and calls for the establishment of an independent Palestinian State on the 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital. We appreciate Kuwait's supportive stance on Palestine. We cooperate within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to unify Islamic positions and achieve justice.
Q: How do you see the future of joint Islamic action in light of the political divisions among some Islamic countries?
A: Unity among Islamic countries is essential despite the differences. Shared values and common challenges require stronger cooperation. We believe that the balanced Kuwaiti leadership is a beacon of hope in terms of having unified Islamic voice on the international stage.
Q: How does the embassy handle community complaints? Is there a unified electronic platform?
A: We have updated consular services through appointment systems, communication lines, social media and email. Community members can submit complaints through official portals; such as the Overseas Pakistanis Complaints Portal, Overseas Pakistanis Foundation, and Pakistan Citizen app.
Q: How do you see the future of Kuwaiti-Pakistani relations in light of global changes?
A: The future is promising. Partnership between the two countries will grow in the fields of energy, trade, education, health, food security, and human resource development. Kuwait has the vision and resources, while Pakistan has the competencies and capabilities.
Q: What is your message to the leadership and people of Kuwait?
A: I extend my highest appreciation and respect to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah, the wise leadership, and the generous people of Kuwait. Pakistan views Kuwait as a partner in faith and compassion, and a friend in the pursuit of peace and development. On behalf of more than 240 million Pakistanis, we affirm our pride in our close historical relationship and look forward to a shared future built on mutual values and trust.