Pakistan, Russia Discuss Development of Central Asian Transport Corridors

Islamabad: Pakistan and Russia have agreed to strengthen road and rail connectivity through Central Asia, aiming to boost regional trade and economic cooperation. The understanding was reached during a bilateral meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Communications, Abdul Aleem Khan, and Russia’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Andrey Sergeyevich Nikitin, held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Ministerial Conference in Tianjin.

According to an official press release, both sides emphasized the need to accelerate the construction of transport corridors linking regional countries. The ministers noted that improved connectivity through Central Asia—with access to warm waters via Pakistan—has the potential to significantly enhance trade volumes and economic integration across the region.

Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan briefed the Russian delegation on Pakistan’s ongoing initiatives to modernize its transport infrastructure. He highlighted key reforms including the digitization of highway systems, installation of CCTV monitoring, and the planned implementation of electronic toll collection (e-tagging) to make motorways barrier-free and more efficient.

He further stated that Pakistan is committed to enhancing its logistical capacity as part of its broader strategy to serve as a regional trade hub. The modernization of highways and expansion of transport networks, he noted, will support the vision of seamless cross-border connectivity.

Deputy Minister Nikitin reaffirmed Russia’s willingness to continue joint projects with Pakistan in the transport and infrastructure sectors. He expressed confidence that both countries can play a pivotal role in facilitating economic linkages between Central Asia, South Asia, and beyond.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on the outcomes of the SCO Ministerial Conference. Both parties acknowledged the importance of collective regional efforts in developing sustainable infrastructure that promotes trade, mobility, and cooperation among member states.