Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Connectivity at SCO Transport Ministers’ Summit

Islamabad / Astana – June 26:
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan affirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to regional trade and connectivity during his address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Transport Ministers’ Summit on Wednesday.

Khan stated that Pakistan has made notable progress in highway development under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasizing that infrastructure expansion remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic vision.

“Gwadar and Karachi ports are fully operational and aligned with international cargo handling standards,” the minister said, noting their critical role in expanding Pakistan’s trade links. He also highlighted the Khunjerab border crossing as a vital gateway to China and announced that the Khunjerab-Sust road would remain open year-round from 2023 onward, a move expected to greatly enhance bilateral trade.

Khan underlined Pakistan’s broader trade ambitions with Afghanistan and Iran, adding that emerging trade corridors would be the backbone of Pakistan’s future economic growth.

A key highlight of his speech was the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan railway project, a 722-kilometer initiative set to link Kharlachi to Termez via Mazar-i-Sharif, which he described as a landmark for regional integration and development.

“Pakistan is rapidly transitioning toward smart and digital transport systems,” Khan said, underscoring the government’s efforts in transport sector modernization.

To support regional openness, Pakistan has issued 20,000 visas on arrival to citizens of 126 countries, illustrating a policy shift toward greater connectivity.

“Transport is not just about mobility; it is a gateway to development and regional collaboration,” the minister asserted, calling the SCO a vital forum for peace, prosperity, and regional cooperation.

He concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to fully implement all SCO transport-related decisions and to build modern, integrated networks based on trust and collaboration among member states.