ISLAMABAD, Feb. 6 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that his country is committed to harnessing the potential of Gwadar Port to transform the Gwadar district in the southwestern Balochistan province into a world-class trade hub, and a gateway for economic progress and regional integration, the Prime Minister's office said in a statement.

Chairing the federal cabinet meeting here on Tuesday, Sharif expressed confidence that with intensified diplomatic efforts and collaboration among stakeholders, the port would soon become a commercial success, benefiting both Pakistan and the region, the statement added.

Sharif praised the ongoing infrastructure development in the region, including the construction of highways, adding that China-funded projects, including the Pak-China Friendship Hospital and Technical and Vocational Institute, are significantly contributing to public welfare in the district.

To accelerate the port's development, Sharif directed to form a high-level committee led by Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal to address operational challenges and formulate a comprehensive strategy to ensure the port's modernization.

Sharif further instructed officials to organize an international conference to promote awareness about Gwadar Port's utility and highlighted the need for a robust marketing and diplomatic outreach strategy.

"Gwadar Port holds immense potential to strengthen Pakistan's trade connectivity with regional and global markets. Its immediate operationalization is crucial for boosting economic development and regional trade," said Sharif.

The prime minister was briefed that the port provides low-cost and time-efficient access for ships up to 50,000 deadweight tonnage and is positioned to become a key player in transshipment to Gulf countries.■