ISLAMABAD: An international seminar focusing on revitalising the historic Silk Road to enhance economic and cultural ties between Pakistan and Asean countries was held here in Islamabad on Friday, bringing together diplomats, academics and policymakers.
The event, organised by the International Institute for Regional and International Studies (IIRIS) in collaboration with the Indonesian Corner at the Embassy of Indonesia and Women University Mardan, explored avenues for boosting trade, tourism, investment and regional connectivity.
Speaking at the opening session, IIRIS President Shafiqat Rasool noted that Asean had emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic regional blocs, offering significant opportunities for Pakistan to expand its engagement with Southeast Asia.
He stressed that the evolving global and regional environment presented a timely opportunity to deepen partnerships through stronger economic and people-to-people linkages.
Keynote speaker Dr Sadia Sulaiman of Quaid-i-Azam University underlined that meaningful regional connectivity required more than economic frameworks.
She emphasised the importance of political will, visionary leadership and sustained institutional cooperation, adding that academic and research institutions could play a vital role in shaping practical strategies for long-term integration.
Member of the National Assembly Maulana Nazim Ali Shah, as chief guest, highlighted Pakistan’s growing engagement with Asean states and underscored the role of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting economic cooperation and sustainable development.
Representing Indonesia, Minister Counsellor Rahmat Hindiarta said the current trade volume of around $11 billion between Asean and Pakistan fell short of its true potential.
He pointed out that Indonesia was already Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner and called for diversification of trade to strengthen economic ties further.
Dr Razia Sultana, Vice Chancellor of Women University Mardan, stressed the role of universities in fostering innovation, research collaboration and international partnerships. She remarked that the Silk Road historically served not only as a trade route but also as a bridge for cultural, intellectual and social exchange.
The seminar was attended by members of the diplomatic community, including envoys from Sri Lanka, Mauritius and Vietnam, reflecting growing international interest in strengthening Asean–Pakistan relations.
During discussions, participants highlighted the importance of reviving the Silk Road to promote sustainable tourism, expand trade corridors, attract investment and enhance cultural diplomacy. They also stressed the need for stronger academic collaboration and policy coordination.
Concluding the seminar, speakers observed that revitalising the Silk Road was a practical pathway to building stronger regional partnerships and ensuring shared economic prosperity.
They called for closer collaboration among governments, academia and the private sector to fully realise the potential of Asean-Pakistan cooperation.
Published in Dawn, July 25th, 2026
