RAWALPINDI: Pakistan and Uzbekistan will soon begin work on the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Uzbekistan Railway Transit Corridor project.

This was decided during a meeting between Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi and Uzbekistan’s Ambassador, Ali Shir Takhtaev, on Tuesday.

The two sides discussed the railway transit corridor project aimed at enhancing cooperation in the railway sector and developing a joint strategy for its completion.

They described the project as a milestone for regional economic growth and stronger trade ties.

A consensus was reached to finalise collaboration on this approximately 850-kilometre railway project, which includes the construction of a new 647-kilometer railway line through Afghanistan.

The corridor will be the first direct railway link between Central and South Asia, opening new avenues for trade and economic cooperation in the region.

Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi stated, “Upon completion of this project, Pakistan will gain the shortest and most efficient route to Central Asia, which will not only increase trade volumes but also place the regional economy on a solid footing.”

He added that the railway corridor would significantly reduce transit time and transportation costs, benefiting all stakeholders.

The corridor is expected to handle an annual freight capacity of 15 million tons, boosting regional export and import volumes.

The minister described the project as a historic milestone that would provide Central Asia with direct access to Pakistan’s ports, facilitating global trade connectivity.

He further highlighted the project’s strategic significance as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, stating that it would not only strengthen economic relations but also contribute to regional peace and stability.

Ambassador Takhtaev emphasised the investment potential in Pakistan’s railway sector and the opportunity to enhance bilateral trade.

He noted that collaborative efforts could foster economic prosperity and generate employment opportunities in both countries.

Both leaders underscored the project’s positive impact on promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan, calling it a symbol of development and harmony in the region.

They reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in the railway sector and continuing joint development initiatives.

Minister Hanif Abbasi pledged to benefit from Uzbekistan’s expertise to modernise Pakistan’s railway system and improve operational efficiency through meaningful reforms. Both parties reiterated their dedication to regional cooperation, the activation of economic corridors, and mutual development through sustained collaboration.

Published in Dawn, June 4th, 2025