LAHORE: The Progressive Group in the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), welcoming the approval of a proposal to construct a rail link from Uzbekistan to Pakistan via Afghanistan, has said such a rail link would facilitate easier transportation of goods and commodities between the three countries.

This could enhance regional trade, promote economic growth, and open up new markets for businesses in each nation, said Progressive Group’s central leader and LCCI Executive Committee member Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer here on Wednesday.

Talking to media persons, Ejaz said that his group had always advocated developing such a link between Pakistan and Europe via Turkiye or other regional countries. It would require significant infrastructure development, leading to improved connectivity within the countries involved. This can boost tourism, investments, and industrial development in the regions along the railway route.

“Currently, most trade between Europe and South Asia is dependent on sea routes, which could be susceptible to geopolitical tensions and maritime piracy. A railway link could provide an alternative and more secure trade route, reducing dependence on traditional sea lanes and bringing down the cost,” Ejaz added.

The Progressive Group’s leader said such a railway link would foster greater regional integration and cooperation among Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. This could lead to joint development projects, increased cultural exchanges, and improved diplomatic relations.

Similarly, he said that the construction and operation of the railway link would generate employment opportunities in various sectors, including construction, logistics, and services, leading to a positive impact on the local workforce.

The railway link could potentially facilitate the transportation of energy resources, such as oil and gas, between the countries, enhancing energy cooperation and security in the region.

However, he observed that it was essential to note that the establishment of a railway link of such magnitude would involve significant challenges, including political, financial, and logistical hurdles. Additionally, the strategic and geopolitical implications of such a project would need to be carefully considered by the involved nations, Tanveer concluded.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2023