ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Abdul Aleem Khan, Minister for Communications, Board of Investment, and Privatization, recently met with Russia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, to discuss mutual interests and bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
During the meeting, they extensively discussed enhancing road connectivity between Russia and Pakistan, emphasizing its potential to significantly boost trade and cargo activities between the two nations, as stated in a press release.
Minister Khan highlighted Pakistan’s eagerness to establish road links connecting Russia through Central Asian countries, ultimately linking to Karachi Port. Such connectivity, he emphasized, would not only promote bilateral trade but also enhance commerce for neighboring countries.
He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening trade relations with Russia, acknowledging its pivotal role in regional dynamics. Additionally, Khan expressed Pakistan’s openness to attracting investments from Central Asian and South Asian countries, following his recent visit to Central Asia.
The discussions also delved into strategies for promoting bilateral trade and streamlining investment mechanisms. Ambassador Khorev affirmed Russia’s keen interest in bolstering economic ties with Pakistan, pledging financial and technical assistance for various projects in the country.
Khorev highlighted the strategic importance of the China-Pakistan-Central Asia road network, and Russia’s desire to establish connectivity to Pakistan through Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan, envisioning a robust trade corridor.
The Ambassador described Pakistan as pivotal in regional trade dynamics and expressed Russia’s aspiration to collaborate as a strategic partner.
The meeting also explored possibilities for bilateral flight operations between Islamabad, Karachi, and Moscow, underscoring potential avenues for enhanced air connectivity.
Federal Secretary Communications, Ali Sher Mehsud, provided insights into government policies and the Department of Communications’ initiatives concerning road networks spanning China, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and beyond.