Qudsia Bano

Pakistan and Uzbekistan have taken a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties by agreeing to establish a High-Level Strategic Council and accelerate the Trans-Afghan Railway project.

Experts believe these developments will boost regional connectivity and create new economic opportunities for both nations, reports WealthPK.

The leaders emphasized that the Trans-Afghan Railway, linking Central Asia with South Asia, would be a game changer for trade, investment, and regional stability. The railway aims to facilitate smoother transportation of goods between Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, unlocking the potential for increased trade volumes and reducing logistical costs.

They also agreed that Afghanistan’s stability was crucial for the project's success.  Talking to WealthPK, Muhammad Ibrar Ahmed, a senior officer of Pakistan Railways, highlighted the economic significance of the project, stating that it would revolutionize trade routes in the region. 

“Pakistan and Uzbekistan have immense trade potential, but logistical challenges have held back their economic partnership. This railway will reduce the transportation costs and provide a direct corridor for trade, benefiting not only Pakistan and Uzbekistan but also Afghanistan,” he said.  

He further noted that regional connectivity projects like this could help Pakistan diversify its trade routes and reduce dependence on traditional partners. Ibrar emphasized the strategic importance of the High-Level Strategic Council, calling it a step toward long-term cooperation.  

“This council institutionalizes bilateral relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, ensuring that discussions on trade, security, and connectivity remain a priority. Given Uzbekistan’s growing economic influence in Central Asia and Pakistan’s strategic location, this partnership has the potential to reshape regional dynamics,” he explained.

He also stressed that security cooperation and political stability in Afghanistan would be key to the success of the railway project. The leaders also discussed expanding tourism links through increased flights and new destinations, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between the two nations.

Credit: INP-WealthPk