Minister for Maritime Affairs Syed Ali Haider Zaidi has invited 'Sanmar' a Turkish shipbuilder to build a shipyard in Pakistan, share their expertise and transfer technology.

He extended the invitation during a contract signing ceremony between Pakistan’s Port Qasim Authority and Sanmar Shipyards of Turkey in Islamabad.

Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan Mustafa Yurdakul was also present in the ceremony.

Pakistan and a Turkish shipbuilder signed two contracts worth 33.46 million dollars for the procurement of four Azimuthing Stern Drive [ASD], LNG compatible, tugboats and two pilot boats.

According to a statement of Pakistan's Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Sanmar which is Turkey’s leading tugboat manufacturer will deliver the vessels within 12 months.

The statement further said this will be a significant step forward to enhance the brotherly relations between both the countries.