TIANJIN/ ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has said that Pakistan is committed to enhancing trade through rail and air routes and is especially interested in developing trade corridors with China, Afghanistan, and Iran.
Speaking at the Transport Ministers’ Conference of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Tianjin, China, he said that under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Pakistan has made major progress in road construction and now aims to expand trade beyond the Afghan and Iranian borders. He added that ports in Gwadar and Karachi are now fully operational for cargo handling as per international standards, while Pakistan’s trade progress is closely linked to the Khunjerab border in the north and the coastal routes in the south.
The minister also highlighted the planned railway project between Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan as a key step toward regional development.
He criticized India for skipping the conference, pointing out that the invited Indian representative, Anand Prakash, did not attend and left the seat vacant. He termed this behavior irresponsible and said it reflects India’s reluctance to engage with other countries on global platforms. “Pakistan always seeks equal and respectful ties, and as a nuclear power, we believe in peaceful coexistence,” he said.
Abdul Aleem Khan urged India to act like a responsible neighbor and adopt a cooperative approach. Other SCO participants also expressed disappointment over India’s absence.
Highlighting Pakistan’s regional efforts, he said the decision to keep the Khunjerab-Sust Road open year-round is of great significance. Pakistan also supports the joint construction of Silk Road stations with China.
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He added that Pakistan is rapidly moving toward digital and smart transport systems and is currently offering visa-on-arrival to citizens from 126 countries, with over 20,000 visas issued under the policy so far.
The minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to implementing SCO decisions and said regional progress depends on mutual trust, cooperation, and a modern transport network. As a full member of SCO since 2017, Pakistan is actively working to improve connectivity across the region.
