KARACHI: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has said that Pakistan aims to emerge as a key transit hub, bridging the economies of South Asia and Central Asia, state-run Radio Pakistan reported on Sunday.

A high-level delegation from Pakistan, led by the federal minister, participated in the Kazan Forum organised under the auspices of the Russian Federation in the capital of Tatarstan.

`Gwadar Port has already started shipment and cargo services, while Pal(istan intends to facilitate Central Asia`s access to warm waters,` the state-run radio quoted the minister as saying while addressing the closing session.

Mr Khan said the Mazar-i-Sharif to Kohat Railway Project is expected to cost around $633 million. He spoke about Pakistan`s strategic plans to connect Karachi, Quetta and Gwadar cities with Central Asia and Europe through road networks, according to a Dawn.com report. He also revealed ongoing work on a pilot project for a Railway line to Russia via Iran.

He said that the Sul(lcurHyderabad Motorway (M-6) is afocal project for good investment.

He noted that since 2023, the National Logistics Cell (NLC) has been providing cargo services to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. In August last year, Pakistan introduced visa-on-arrival facilities for citizens of 126 countries to promote trade and investment.

Mr Khan welcomed the holding of the Kazan Forum and reaffirmed Pakistan`s strong commitment to playing an active role in regional development.

Addressing the session on Cultural Dialogue on the opening day on Friday, the minister emphasised thatPakistan possesses arich historical and social heritage, AFP reported. He welcomed cultural exchanges with Russia and Central Asian states, terming such initiatives a positive and promising step towards achieving a peaceful world and paving the way for harmony.

He reaffirmed Pakistan`s commitment to playing an active role in the region to enhance trade and strengthen the national economy.

Meeting with Russian Deputy PM On the sidelines of the forum, Mr Khan held a bilateral meeting and joint session with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, accompanied by their respectivedelegations. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors with emphasis on investments in the communications sectors.

Mr Khan expressed Pakistan`s strong interest in developing a broad-based partnership with Russia. Mr Khusnullin underscored Russia`s desire for comprehensive regional development and mutual collaboration. He welcomed Pakistan`s participation in the Kazan Forum and expressed willingness to strengthen cooperation in economic, cultural, and other fields.

Discussion with Dubai Ports chief Mr Khan also met Dubai Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem and discussed matters related to shipping and cargo logistics between Pakistan and Dubai ports. He highlighted Pakistan`s interest in `North to South` land connectivity and noted that the country is modernising its communications infrastructure.

The chairman of the Dubai ports expressed strong interest in expanding trade relations and deliberated on various projects, including investing in Pakistan`s M6, M9, and N-25 Highways.