Pakistan, Uzbekistan reaffirm rail link deal

June 04, 2025 (MLN): Uzbekistan and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to completing the historic Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway Transit Corridor project.

This came during a significant meeting held in Islamabad between Minister for Railways Mr. Hanif Abbasi and the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, Mr. Ali Shir Takhtaev.

The approximately 850-kilometer railway connectivity project, which includes the construction of a 647-kilometer new railway line through Afghanistan, was described by both parties as a milestone for regional economic growth and trade consolidation.

Consensus was reached to finalize cooperation on the corridor, which is set to become the first direct railway link between Central Asia and South Asia, opening new avenues for trade and economic collaboration.

Minister Hanif Abbasi stated that the completion of this project will provide Pakistan with the shortest and most efficient route to Central Asia, significantly increasing trade volumes and strengthening the regional economy.

He noted that the railway corridor is expected to handle an annual freight capacity of 15 million tons, which will boost export and import volumes in the region.

The Minister also emphasized that this corridor will drastically reduce transit time and transportation costs, benefiting all stakeholders, as per the press release issued.

He termed the project a historic milestone that will provide Central Asia direct access to Pakistan’s ports, enhancing access to global trading markets.

Furthermore, Minister Abbasi highlighted the strategic importance of the project as a key component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, underlining its potential to reinforce economic ties and promote regional peace and stability.

Ambassador Ali Shir Takhtaev pointed out the vast investment opportunities in Pakistan’s railway sector and expressed optimism that enhanced bilateral cooperation will foster economic prosperity and create new employment opportunities for people in both countries.

Both leaders lauded the potential of the project to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan, describing it as a beacon of development and harmony for the region.

Minister Abbasi also pledged to leverage Uzbekistan’s expertise to modernize Pakistan’s railway system and enhance its operational efficiency through robust reforms.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their dedication to promoting regional cooperation, activating economic corridors, and advancing mutual development through sustained joint initiatives.

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