Pakistan Identifies Six New Trade Corridors to Boost Regional Connectivity

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has unveiled plans for six strategic trade corridors, aiming to strengthen economic ties with Central Asia, Europe, and Russia through China, Afghanistan, and Iran.

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan announced the initiative at the Kazan Forum, emphasizing Pakistan’s vision to serve as an economic bridge rather than just a transit hub.

Key Trade Routes:

  • Karachi to Moscow via China and Kazakhstan
  • Gwadar to Moscow via Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran
  • Mazar-e-Sharif to Kohat Railway Project ($633 million investment)
  • Gwadar Port Expansion to facilitate Central Asian trade

Pakistan has also introduced a visa-on-arrival facility for 126 countries, encouraging global trade and investment. Additionally, the Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway (M-6) is positioned as a key infrastructure project for foreign investors.

During the forum, Minister Khan held discussions with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, exploring bilateral cooperation in communications and investment. Russian officials welcomed Pakistan’s participation, reaffirming their commitment to regional development and economic collaboration.

This initiative underscores Pakistan’s long-term strategy for trade expansion, reinforcing its role in global commerce and infrastructure development.