Pakistan has implemented a ban on Indian flag carriers from using its ports, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
This move comes as a retaliatory measure following India’s actions against Pakistan in the aftermath of a deadly attack in occupied Kashmir.
The decision, announced by Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs, prohibits Indian flag vessels from accessing Pakistani ports. The order also extends to Pakistani flag carriers, which will no longer be permitted to visit Indian ports.
The Pakistani authorities have indicated that any exemptions to the ban will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The ministry cited the protection of Pakistan’s maritime sovereignty, economic interests, and national security as the reasons behind this decision.
This latest development follows a series of reciprocal actions, including India’s restriction on the entry of Pakistani-flagged ships to its ports. Additionally, India has taken measures to protect its maritime assets and infrastructure by barring Pakistani vessels.
The increasing strain between the two nations has led to growing concerns over disruptions to trade and regional stability.
Trade relations between Pakistan and India have already been in decline for several years. The ban on port access is the latest in a series of retaliatory actions that have resulted in a near-total severing of economic and trade exchanges between the two countries.
In addition to the port restrictions, India has also banned imports from Pakistan and suspended the exchange of inbound mail and parcels. These measures were imposed by India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade in the name of national security and public policy.
Pakistan, in turn, responded by halting all border trade, closing its airspace to Indian carriers, and expelling Indian diplomats.
This diplomatic standoff has raised concerns about the broader impact on trade and the economic ties between the two nations, with both sides intensifying efforts to protect their national interests. As the situation unfolds, industry experts are watching closely to assess the potential long-term consequences for regional trade and shipping industries.
