Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday underscored the importance of regional connectivity and economic cooperation, saying that enhanced collaboration in transport and trade would revolutionize economic growth across the region.

Addressing the closing session of the Regional Transport Ministers Conference 2025 in Islamabad, the PM said the event provided an important platform for dialogue on strengthening bilateral and regional ties.

“Changes are taking place in the global transport and connectivity systems, and our region remains a key axis of connectivity under the current Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),” he said.

Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing major regional projects, including the Trans-Afghan Railway and the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul Corridor, emphasizing that such initiatives would connect economies, boost trade, and create shared prosperity.

“Pakistan is now entering the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC),” he said, adding that greater regional connectivity would unlock new trade routes and drive growth across South and Central Asia.

The PM highlighted that Gwadar’s long coastline and Karachi Port are integral parts of the Maritime Silk Road, underscoring Pakistan’s growing role in the global supply chain and regional transport integration.

Digital connectivity, youth empowerment emphasized

Prime Minister Shehbaz noted that in the digital era, connectivity extends beyond physical infrastructure. “Today’s age is defined by data and technological integration. We are investing in digital infrastructure to prepare our youth for the modern economy,” he said.

He added that education and training programs are being aligned with technological trends to create a workforce capable of driving future innovation and connectivity.

Shared regional cooperation for prosperity

Earlier, Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan addressed the conference, expressing gratitude to the participating countries for their shared commitment to regional cooperation.

“The conference is a reflection of our collective resolve to promote connectivity, trade, and economic development across the region,” he said. “Increased regional trade is essential for the prosperity of all.”

The minister noted that Gwadar Port holds the potential to become a major hub for regional trade, linking markets across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Commitments for infrastructure and partnerships

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to addressing infrastructure gaps, adopting modern financing mechanisms, and enhancing partnerships with international institutions to promote regional transport projects.

They emphasized the need for improved visa facilitation, particularly for drivers, crew, and logistics personnel, and recognized the value of the ECO Visa Sticker Scheme in easing cross-border transport.

The conference also endorsed cooperation in road safety, consumer protection, and harmonization of safety standards, alongside efforts to promote the Blue Economy within the maritime sector.

Pakistan reaffirmed its readiness to advance joint projects, partnerships, and policy initiatives that promote economic integration. “Together, we can transform regional cooperation into a powerful engine of shared growth,” Prime Minister Shehbaz concluded.