Pakistan Seeks US Partnership for Pasni Port Near Chabahar
RNS: In a surprising diplomatic overture, Pakistan has reportedly offered the United States a $1.2 billion proposal to build and operate a deep-water port at Pasni in Balochistan — a move seen as an attempt to rekindle relations with Washington under President Donald Trump, according to the Financial Times.
Strategic Port Near India’s Chabahar
The proposed civilian port at Pasni, just 100 km from China-run Gwadar and about 300 km from India’s Chabahar port in Iran, would place the US in a geopolitically sensitive corridor along the Arabian Sea. The plan suggests the port would serve as a hub for accessing Pakistan’s vast mineral reserves, particularly rare earth elements critical for defence and technology.
Munir’s Outreach and Trump Meeting
Sources told FT that advisers to Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir have engaged senior US officials about the project. The offer reportedly gained traction after a closed-door White House meeting last month between Trump, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Munir.
During the talks, Sharif pitched American investment in mining and energy, while Munir showcased samples of Pakistan’s mineral wealth—later seen in photos of him gifting Trump a box containing rare earth specimens.
Soon after, a US metals company signed a $500 million joint exploration deal with Pakistan, hinting at renewed strategic cooperation between the two sides.
Civilian Port, Not Military Base
While the project’s blueprint excludes any military use or base construction, it envisions US financing to develop a rail link connecting Pasni to Pakistan’s mineral-rich western belt. Islamabad hopes this could attract broader US engagement in its infrastructure and energy sectors.
Balancing Beijing and Washington
The Pasni pitch comes as Islamabad walks a diplomatic tightrope. China already operates Gwadar under the Belt and Road Initiative, and any US entry into nearby Pasni could test Pakistan’s balancing act between its two powerful allies.
Regional Ripples: India Watching Closely
For India, the development carries significant implications. Chabahar—developed jointly by India and Iran—serves as New Delhi’s key gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. A US foothold just across the maritime border could add a new layer to the region’s strategic competition.
