Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has emphasized the need for greater mutual connectivity among Silk Way Forum member countries, stressing that enhanced trade corridors and increased flight operations are crucial for boosting regional trade.
Speaking at the Almaty Roundtable Conference on Transportation, Khan highlighted that air connectivity must be expanded to achieve the forum’s objectives. He noted that flights between member states should increase to facilitate business travel, trade, and cultural exchange.
The minister underscored that trade corridors are key to promoting mutual commerce and enabling countries in the region to benefit from one another’s experiences.
Pakistan invites members to Islamabad conference
Khan extended an invitation to Silk Way Forum member countries to attend the Regional Transport Ministers Conference scheduled for October 23–24 in Islamabad. He said the gathering will provide another opportunity to strengthen cooperation and discuss practical steps toward improving regional connectivity.
In his address, Khan stressed that building stronger land connections will be inevitable for increasing the region’s trade volume. He encouraged business communities and citizens of member countries to travel more frequently, fostering stronger people-to-people ties.
“This forum provides an opportunity to benefit from each other’s experiences. We are hopeful for positive results from the conference,” he said, adding that the recent visit of Kazakhstan’s vice president and ministers to Pakistan had been productive.
Central Asia as a gateway
The minister noted that Pakistan views Central Asian states as a strategic gateway for enhancing its own economy and communication networks. He said regional cooperation can not only improve transport infrastructure but also accelerate economic growth.
Kazakhstan’s Transport Minister Nurlan Soranbayev, who hosted the session, expressed goodwill toward Pakistan and echoed the importance of deepening regional collaboration.
