The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is expected to approve a new border connectivity and logistics upgrade facility for Pakistan in the coming weeks, a step aimed at modernising border infrastructure, improving cross-border logistics, and strengthening regional trade links.
The development was shared by the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Secretariat during a meeting with Commerce Minister Jam Kamal, where both sides reviewed ongoing initiatives to enhance trade, investment, logistics, and economic cooperation among CAREC member states.
According to an official statement, the proposed facility will help upgrade Pakistan’s border infrastructure, enabling smoother movement of goods and improving trade connectivity with neighbouring countries and regional partners.
Focus on Trade Facilitation and Regional Integration
During the meeting, the CAREC Secretariat highlighted Pakistan’s continued participation in the Regional Trade and Investment Facilitation Partnership (RTIFP) framework, which has now entered its implementation phase.
The initiative is designed to promote trade facilitation, strengthen logistics cooperation, and encourage investment across the CAREC region, with the aim of reducing trade barriers and improving regional economic integration.
Officials said the programme is expected to support more efficient cross-border trade while enhancing connectivity between participating economies.
Also read: ADB terms political unrest as risk towards economic stabilisation in Pakistan
Preparations Underway for CAREC Ministerial Conference
The discussions also covered preparations for the upcoming CAREC Ministerial Conference and Business Forum, scheduled to take place in Mongolia on September 29–30.
The annual gathering will bring together government representatives, development partners, and business leaders to discuss opportunities for deeper regional cooperation.
Key topics on the agenda include:
- Regional logistics and transport connectivity
- Energy security
- Critical minerals
- Digital connectivity
- Investment promotion
- Private sector collaboration
The forum is expected to serve as a platform for CAREC member countries to explore new partnerships and advance initiatives that support sustainable economic growth and regional integration.
The anticipated approval of the ADB-backed border connectivity facility is expected to complement these efforts by improving Pakistan’s trade infrastructure and strengthening its role in regional commerce.
