On July 17, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the signing of a trilateral railway agreement between Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan during a ceremony held in Kabul. This strategic milestone marks a significant step in enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic integration.
The project, called the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (UAP) Railway Corridor, aims to establish a vital trade link, connecting Uzbekistan and other Central Asian nations to Pakistani seaports via Afghanistan. The railway corridor is designed to open new trade routes, facilitating seamless transit and unlocking unparalleled economic opportunities across the region.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), DPM Dar congratulated the governments and people of the three nations on this achievement, emphasizing its importance for regional development. He extended his gratitude to the foreign ministers of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan for their commitment throughout the negotiation process, which led to the timely signing of the Framework Agreement.
The Framework Agreement features a joint feasibility study for the planned Naibabad–Kharlachi rail link, central to the UAP Corridor’s success. According to Dar, this milestone builds on the groundwork established during Pakistan’s previous PDM government (2022–23).
“This transformational project reflects the leadership and dedication of our countries to advancing regional connectivity and economic integration,” Dar stated.
Minister for Railways Mian Mohammad Hanif Abbasi and other senior officials joined DPM Dar at the signing ceremony. The Foreign Office lauded Dar’s efforts, reiterating the government’s commitment to realizing the UAP Railway Project, which represents a significant leap toward achieving trans-regional connectivity.
During his visit, Dar also met Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to discuss progress in bilateral relations. Both sides highlighted the importance of strengthening trade, security, and transit cooperation for mutual benefit, agreeing to sustain the momentum in future collaborative efforts.
The trilateral railway agreement is not only expected to enhance economic integration but also strengthen diplomatic ties among the participating nations. Recent improvements in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, including Islamabad’s decision to upgrade its Chargé d’Affaires to ambassadorial rank, indicate a mutual commitment to fostering regional stability and development.
The UAP Railway Corridor offers a platform for Central Asia, South Asia, and beyond to achieve greater economic collaboration, paving the way for lasting regional prosperity.
