DOHA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Qatar has launched a new direct route between Hamad Port and Pakistan's port of Karachi, Qatar's state news agency (QNA) reported Monday.
The new route, launched on Sunday, will boost trade between the two countries, and offer "fast and secure" corridor for importers and exporters, with transit time of six days from Qatar to Karachi and eight days back, the report said.
"The new shipping line provides more options for customers, exporters and importers from both countries, covering new important ports from around the world, which will play an important role in supporting trade between Qatar and its partners of the world," said Captain Abdul Aziz al Yafei, Director of Hamad Port.
Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt imposed land, air and sea blockade on Qatar since June 5, accusing it of financing extremist groups and allying with the Gulf Arab state's arch-foe Iran. Qatar denies the allegations.
