ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the importance of strengthening air connectivity with the Central Asian Republics as a key component of Pakistan’s regional connectivity strategy.
Speaking at the concluding session of the two-day Regional Transport Ministers’ Conference, the Prime Minister highlighted how improved air links would foster greater trade, joint venture investments, and stronger people-to-people ties across the region.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that enhanced air travel would provide a “quantum leap” in Pakistan’s connectivity with Central Asia, facilitating smoother trade routes and business opportunities. He noted that strengthening these air links, alongside frameworks for international road transport, is crucial for realizing Pakistan’s vision of becoming a central hub in regional and global trade.
The Prime Minister also informed delegates about the ongoing focus on numerous connectivity projects, including the Trans-Afghan Railways and the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul corridor. These, along with air connectivity, are expected to revolutionize cross-border trade and collaboration, providing Pakistan with critical access to Central Asia and beyond.
He added that Pakistan’s long coastline, including Gwadar and Karachi, would further enhance its role in the Maritime Silk Road, complementing these transport initiatives.
The Prime Minister further discussed the potential economic impact of such connectivity, noting that it will enable better access for Pakistani goods and services to Central Asia and vice versa, driving mutual economic growth. These enhanced air links, he said, are part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to modernize infrastructure and expand its regional influence through the development of key transport corridors.
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