In a landmark move, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan signed a trilateral memorandum of understanding in Kabul regarding the feasibility study for the Trans-Afghan Railway project. The agreement was signed in the presence of the foreign ministers of all three countries, with Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Works, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport, and Pakistan’s Ministry of Railways as key stakeholders.
Trilateral Collaboration for Regional Progress
A high-level trilateral meeting was held in Kabul where representatives from all three nations discussed progress on the Trans-Afghan Railway, regional trade, and security cooperation. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar led the Pakistani delegation, which included Federal Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi and Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Sadiq Khan. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Uzbekistan’s Transport Minister Elyor Ganiev also led their respective delegations.
Upon his arrival in Kabul, Dar was received by Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Naeem Wardak. He held a one-on-one meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister Muttaqi where they discussed strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing trade, and regional connectivity.
Dar congratulated Muttaqi on the historic agreement and stressed continued communication to harness the full economic potential of the region. Both sides agreed to accelerate joint efforts for mutual benefit.
Strategic Talks and High-Level Meetings
Dar also met with Afghanistan’s interim Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund at the Gul Khana Palace. The meeting was attended by key Afghan leaders, including Foreign Minister Muttaqi and PM Office Chief Dr. Mullah Abdul Wasi. Dar conveyed a goodwill message from PM Shehbaz Sharif and extended a formal invitation to visit Pakistan.
A key meeting with Afghan Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani also took place, focusing on border security, counterterrorism cooperation, and regional safety.
Railway Project Seen as a Game-Changer
During the trilateral meeting, all sides emphasized that the Trans-Afghan Railway could boost trade, stabilize Afghanistan, and unlock economic opportunities. Uzbekistan’s Transport Minister noted that the project would effectively link Central and South Asia, with Pakistan’s ports playing a crucial role.
Pakistan’s Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi told HTN that the project is progressing swiftly on technical, financial, and security fronts. Afghan Foreign Ministry Deputy Spokesperson Hafiz Zia Ahmad told HTN that the visit would bring the nations closer and advance shared economic goals.
Senior Afghan journalist Hujjatullah Mujadidi also called the project vital for Afghanistan, stating it could transform the country into a dynamic regional transit hub if security improves.
The visit concluded with a joint declaration and the formation of technical committees. The Pakistani delegation returned to Islamabad after what was seen as a successful diplomatic and economic breakthrough.
