Islamabad: Pakistan is working on the Trans-Afghan Railway project to boost regional connectivity and trade, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Friday. Speaking at the last day of a two-day Regional Transport Ministers Conference in the capital Islamabad, Sharif emphasized the significance of ongoing 'connectivity projects' such as the Trans-Afghan Railway and the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul Railway Corridor.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sharif highlighted the importance of 'enhanced airlines to Central Asian countries along with frameworks such as the TIR Convention (Transports Internationaux Routiers, International Road Transport) and International Road Transport mechanisms.' He expressed that these efforts would significantly contribute to uniting the countries in the region.

Furthermore, Sharif remarked on the evolving nature of connectivity in the digital age, stating that it extends beyond traditional modes of transport to include data, innovation, research, development, and technological integration. He noted that Pakistan is investing in digital infrastructure to ensure the country is prepared for the fourth industrial revolution globally.

At the opening session of the conference on Thursday, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar underscored the importance of regional connectivity for stability and shared progress. He stressed the need for enhanced cooperation among neighboring countries to achieve these goals.

The event was attended by transport ministers from several countries, including Trkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Azerbaijan, as well as representatives from international organizations.