ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said regional connectivity is essential for growth, stability, and shared prosperity. He made the remarks while addressing the Regional Transport Ministers’ Conference in Islamabad on Thursday.
International Delegates Attend the Conference
Transport Ministers from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Iran, Belarus, Turkmenistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives attended the event. Representatives from the Asian Development Bank, Economic Cooperation Organisation, International Road Transport Union, and UNESCAP also participated.
Connectivity Projects Driving Regional Growth
Dar highlighted that many countries are investing in forward-looking connectivity projects. He said Central Asia is emerging as a true Trans-Eurasian land bridge.
Infrastructure Creates Shared Opportunities
He noted that oil and gas pipelines across deserts and mountains are linking markets. Expanding road and rail networks demonstrate the region’s collective commitment to cooperation. “These projects are not just infrastructure; they create shared opportunities,” he said.
Pakistan Positioned as Regional Hub
Dar said Pakistan’s strategic location connects South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and China, making it a natural hub for regional connectivity. He emphasized that Pakistan aims to build seamless linkages through road, rail, air, maritime, energy, and digital corridors.
CPEC Symbolises Win-Win Cooperation
Dar said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) represents Pakistan’s vision of win-win cooperation through connectivity. He called it a catalyst for energy infrastructure, transport links, and enhanced trade across South and Central Asia.
Motorways and Ports Strengthen Trade Routes
Dar described Pakistan’s high-speed motorways and national highways as the backbone of connectivity. These routes link key border crossings to the Karachi and Gwadar ports. He said integrated border and maritime systems reduce costs and strengthen Pakistan’s role as a vital trade corridor.
Regional Corridors Unlock New Trade Routes
Dar termed the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway Framework Agreement a landmark initiative that opens new trade avenues. He said the Istanbul-Tehran-Islamabad road and rail corridors offer a cost-effective land bridge connecting Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, and South Asia.
Energy Projects Boost Regional Integration
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s participation in the CASA-1000 electricity project, transmitting surplus energy from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Pakistan and Afghanistan. Dar also mentioned the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (TAP-500) project, which strengthens energy security and promotes shared progress.
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