Pakistan, Tajikistan push for direct flights to boost trade

March 05, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and Tajikistan have emphasized the need for direct flights to facilitate trade and economic cooperation, as discussed in a key meeting between Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, and the Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan.

During the meeting, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted the deep-rooted relations between the two countries and stressed the importance of strengthening trade ties.

The Tajik Ambassador expressed interest in utilizing the Gwadar and Karachi ports for exports and requested the resolution of logistical challenges, to which the minister assured full cooperation.

Tajikistan also showed keen interest in importing various Pakistani products and proposed organizing a trade exhibition to explore business opportunities, as per the press release.

Discussions also covered the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the export of sugar to Tajikistan.

Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain reiterated the importance of previous agreements, including the 6th Session of the Pak-Tajik Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in July 2019, where both sides had agreed to form a Joint Working Group (JWG).

Pakistan had proposed a virtual JWG meeting in September 2024, but no response was received from Tajikistan.

The Ministry has now suggested new dates for April 2025, awaiting a response.

Moving forward, the Ministry of National Food Security & Research will coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to reiterate the proposal for the JWG’s first meeting on agriculture.

Additionally, it will further explore Tajikistan’s interest in Pakistan’s sugar exports and other products to enhance trade relations.

Copyright Mettis Link News