Both sides discussed projects connecting Pakistan to Central Asia via rail, potential economic, trade benefits
Minister to upgrade passenger train booking, fully digitize freight booking to boost efficiency and cut interference. PHOTO: FILE
ISLAMABAD:
A high-level consultation was held at the Ministry of Railways between the Federal Minister for Railways and the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, focusing on regional connectivity and railway cooperation. During the meeting, both sides discussed projects connecting Pakistan to Central Asia via rail and their potential economic and trade benefits.
Under the Prime Minister’s Regional Connectivity Vision, the project has been identified as strategically significant for regional integration. Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi stated that the initiative represents a significant development for Pakistan’s railway sector and could enhance trade and regional linkages.
A network linking Karachi Port to Kazakhstan has been prepared, aimed at strengthening trade and providing Pakistan with a direct rail connection to Central Asia. The network is also planned to extend through Chaman, linking Afghanistan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.
The Pakistan-Kazakhstan Rail Connectivity Project is estimated to cost $7 billion and is expected to be completed within three years. The project timeline and scale place it among the largest railway initiatives under consideration.
The President of Kazakhstan is scheduled to visit Pakistan on February 3, 2026.
