ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, has called for the establishment of direct trade routes with Central Asian states, emphasizing the need for efficient road, rail, and sea linkages. This initiative aims to enhance trade by connecting these regions directly.
Speaking at the second consultative meeting of the Working Group on Multimodal Connectivity in Islamabad, Professor Iqbal outlined the strategic advantages of such a network. He noted that the implementation of a multimodal connectivity network would allow Pakistan to expand its trade options.
The proposed network would also provide Central Asian countries with access to South Asian markets through key Pakistani ports such as Gwadar and Karachi. The minister highlighted the importance of these trade corridors in fostering economic integration and growth within the region.
This development is seen as a pivotal move to strengthen regional trade ties and improve economic cooperation between Pakistan and Central Asia.