Energy City project in Gwadar, invitation to Kuwait to establish Strategic Oil Reserves

Pakistan has decided to invite oil-producing countries to set up Strategic Oil Reserves in the proposed Energy City at Gwadar Port. According to official sources, Pakistan will have the first right to use these reserves in case of war or any emergency, which is an important step for energy security.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry held detailed discussions with Kuwaiti Ambassador Nasser Abdul Rahman Jassim Al-Mutairi on investment opportunities in Gwadar. Kuwait has shown special interest in setting up Strategic Oil Reserves in Gwadar. The government is also waiting for positive developments from Saudi Arabia.

In the past, the plan to set up an Oil City in Gwadar could not move forward due to opposition from some friendly countries. Now a comprehensive project called Energy City is being brought in which will include Strategic Oil Reserves along with LNG and LPG Terminals. Kuwait has also been offered investment in Fuel Storage, Bonded Terminals, Jetty construction and Port Infrastructure and a Multipurpose Terminal near Port Qasim is also part of the project.

The establishment of Pakistan Maritime Energy City (PMEC) was announced in April 2026 and a 12-member committee is now identifying suitable locations for new deep sea ports and related infrastructure. The minister clarified that full consultation with the provincial governments will be held before the project is launched.