Pakistan backs CAREC digital corridor

November 20, 2025 (MLN):  Pakistan has called for the formation of a joint working group to accelerate work on the proposed CAREC Digital Corridor.

This is a regional initiative aimed at improving secure and resilient digital connectivity across Central Asia, said a press release issued today. 

The proposal was made by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan during the 24th CAREC Ministerial Conference held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, on November 20, 2025.

The Minister said Pakistan is prepared to work closely with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and member countries on the feasibility, design, and financing of the digital corridor, which would route regional internet traffic through Pakistan’s international gateways.

The project is seen as strategically important for enhancing cross-border data flows and supporting the region’s shift toward digital trade, financial integration, and e-governance.

Pakistan also signaled support for expanding regional digitization efforts, including the next phase of the CAREC Advanced Transit System–Information Common Exchange (CATS-ICE) and electronic exchange of conformity certificates under CARTIF. 

The country offered technical assistance through the Pakistan Single Window to help harmonize digital systems among member states.

The Minister cited Pakistan’s recent progress in trade facilitation and digital reforms, including passage of the Land Port Authority Act 2025, expansion of the TIR/eTIR transit system, rollout of electronic certificates via the Pakistan Single Window, and continued growth of the RAAST retail payments network. 

These measures, he said, are aligned with CAREC’s focus on connectivity, sustainability, and digital transformation.

On climate cooperation, Pakistan welcomed the creation of the Climate and Sustainability Project Preparatory Fund (CSPPF), calling it essential for countries facing acute climate vulnerability. 

The Minister urged ADB to consider concessional resources to operationalize the facility and said the CAREC Climate Action Plan should prioritize adaptation and resilience, given the growing economic impact of extreme weather in the region.

He also supported timely implementation of the Rolling Action Plan and the development partners’ retreat, which is expected to align financing with the region’s multi-year project pipeline and mobilize private capital for infrastructure and climate projects.

Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja was also part of Pakistan’s delegation at the conference.

Copyright Mettis Link News