Gwadar International Airport Marking a Milestone in Pakistan-China

Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, has hailed the inauguration of the New Gwadar International Airport as a significant step toward strengthening trade, tourism, and regional connectivity. Calling it a historic moment, he emphasized that the airport represents a key milestone in Pakistan-China cooperation and the broader China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The state-of-the-art airport, funded and built by China as a grant, officially began operations on January 20. The inaugural flight, PIA503 from Karachi, was the first commercial aircraft to land at the facility. The airport features a 3,658-meter-long and 75-meter-wide runway, capable of accommodating the largest passenger and cargo aircraft.

Due to its coastal location and exposure to harsh environmental conditions, Chinese engineers implemented specialized anti-corrosion techniques to ensure the long-term durability of the airport’s steel structures and foundation. A Chinese official involved in the project stated that construction adhered to high engineering standards, using advanced materials and technology sourced from China.

The airport is expected to significantly boost trade and tourism, with modern infrastructure designed to facilitate international cargo transportation. A dedicated refrigerated storage system has been installed to support seafood exports, further integrating Gwadar’s economy into global markets.

Government officials believe that the new facility will enhance Pakistan’s connectivity with international destinations and position Gwadar as a transshipment hub. The airport will address previous logistical challenges and create new opportunities for business and investment in the region.

As a key component of CPEC, the airport aligns with the broader vision of linking Gwadar to Kashgar in China’s Xinjiang region. The initiative, launched in 2013, has already transformed Pakistan’s infrastructure landscape, and this latest development signals continued progress in bilateral cooperation.

During the project’s completion ceremony on October 14, 2024, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic ties. Pakistani officials believe the new airport will play a vital role in enhancing regional connectivity, attracting global airlines, and supporting economic development across multiple sectors.