Shehbaz Calls Connectivity Key to Regional Growth
PM says CPEC and rail projects will boost trade, energy, and cooperation
ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday underscored the importance of regional connectivity through CPEC and other transnational rail and road projects, saying these initiatives would boost trade, strengthen cooperation, and bring shared prosperity across the region.
Speaking at the closing session of the Regional Transport Ministers Conference in Islamabad, Shehbaz said enhanced connectivity could unlock the region’s economic potential and create new opportunities for growth.
“This cooperation will strengthen our shared interest in peace and help us achieve collective prosperity,” he said. “Let us sow the seeds of cooperation today to reap the fruits of development tomorrow.”
Regional Cooperation a Win-Win for All
Hosted by the Ministry of Communications, the two-day conference carried the theme “Regional Connectivity: Opportunities for the Region.” It brought together transport ministers and delegates from 20 countries as well as representatives from international bodies such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), the International Road Transport Union (IRU), and the United Nations ESCAP.
The prime minister said Pakistan had historically thrived on its geographic advantage as a hub of trade routes — from the ancient Silk Road to the modern Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
“Changing geopolitical realities and economic priorities have revived this ancient corridor,” he said. “It is now a strategic necessity for our shared future.”
Pakistan’s Strategic Position
Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s pivotal location linking China, Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Arabian Sea, calling it a “tri-junction of economic corridors.” He said Pakistan’s coastline made Gwadar and Karachi vital gateways for the maritime Silk Road.
He praised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), describing it as a transformative partnership that connected markets and people across regions while strengthening trade and energy cooperation.
Advancing CPEC and New Rail Projects
The prime minister said Pakistan had entered an “exciting new phase” of CPEC-2.0, which focuses on business-to-business partnerships and expanding investment opportunities for Chinese companies in Pakistan.
He noted that work was progressing on several major rail and road projects, including the Trans-Afghan Railway and the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul rail corridor. Pakistan, he added, was also working to enhance air connectivity with Central Asian states and strengthen trade through frameworks such as the TIR Convention.
Expanding Connectivity Beyond Transport
Shehbaz said that connectivity was not limited to roads and railways. It also covered digital integration, innovation, and technology, which were vital for modern economies.
“We are investing in digital infrastructure to keep pace with the fourth industrial revolution,” he stated.
He added that Pakistan’s young population, with 60% aged between 15 and 30, was its greatest strength.
“We may not have oil, but our youth are our true resource,” he said. “They can lead Pakistan’s progress and prosperity in the years ahead.”
Ministers Reaffirm Commitment to Shared Growth
Earlier, Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan said the conference participants reaffirmed their resolve to promote connectivity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
He said the forum recognised the need for innovative financing, stronger partnerships with international institutions, and liberal visa policies to improve regional mobility.
The minister also emphasised the importance of road safety, especially for vulnerable users.
“These discussions will serve as a foundation for practical cooperation,” he said. “Pakistan stands ready to support dialogue, joint ventures, and projects that advance our shared agenda.”
After the session, Prime Minister Shehbaz toured an exhibition organised by various Pakistani organisations, including the National Logistics Corporation (NLC), National Highway Authority (NHA), and Pakistan Railways, where he interacted with representatives and viewed different displays.
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