ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan on Thursday signed a framework agreement to conduct a joint feasibility study for a transnational railway project aimed at boosting regional connectivity and economic integration.
The agreement marks a significant step towards establishing a direct rail link between Central Asia and Pakistani seaports via Afghanistan.
According to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the three countries signed the agreement on the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (UAP) Railway Project in Kabul.
“Framework Agreement on Joint Feasibility Study for Naibabad – Kharlachiunder the Uzbek-Afghan-Pakistan Railway Corridor – an instrumental project for regional connectivity, reaffirming strong ties and shared commitment for development,” the Foreign Office statement read.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in a post on a social media platform, congratulated the people and governments of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan on the signing of the Framework Agreement.
“I also thank the Foreign Ministers of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan for their support and commitment for the timely signing of the agreement. We remained closely engaged throughout the negotiation process to finalise the details,” he stated.
I congratulate the people & governments of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan on the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Joint Feasibility Study for the Naibabad–Kharlachi rail link under the Uzbek–Afghan–Pak (UAP) Railway Corridor.
I also thank the Foreign Ministers… pic.twitter.com/HdVw4jm3Nt
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) July 17, 2025
He noted that the UAP Railway Corridor, a major milestone in advancing regional connectivity and economic integration, will connect Central Asian countries to Pakistani seaports through Afghanistan.
Earlier today Ishaq Dar, accompanying a high-level delegation, arrived in Kabul to sign the agreement/
The project aims to establish a rail link connecting Uzbekistan with Pakistan through Afghanistan, enhancing regional trade and access to Pakistani seaports for Central Asian countries.
Regional trade and transit
By facilitating regional trade and transit, the project is expected to promote regional stability, growth, and development, according to a statement issued by the foreign office.
During the visit, Ishaq Dar will also hold a meeting with the Afghan acting foreign minister and will call on the acting prime minister of Afghanistan to discuss bilateral matters and exchange views on regional and international developments.
