The Financial Times newspaper, citing a confidential plan, reported that advisers to Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, have contacted American officials and submitted a proposal to build and operate a new port on the Arabian Sea.
The proposal, which is part of Islamabad’s efforts to attract American investments and reduce dependence on China, could be an alternative to Gwadar Port within the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
According to sources, the proposed port on the coast of the Arabian Sea in Balochistan province or neighboring areas is designed to facilitate maritime trade, increase exports, and strengthen economic ties with the West.
This initiative comes at a time when Pakistan is facing a deep economic crisis, heavy debts to China, and the need for US financial support.
The Financial Times noted that the plan could help Washington curb Beijing’s influence in the region and create alternative trade routes to bypass Chinese ports.
