ADB-backed border connectivity project and regional trade initiatives aim to strengthen Pakistan’s role in the CAREC economic corridor.
The Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Secretariat has briefed Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan on major regional initiatives aimed at enhancing trade, connectivity, investment, and economic integration among CAREC member countries.
During a meeting in Islamabad, the CAREC delegation informed the minister that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is expected to approve a Border Connectivity and Logistics Upgrade Facility in the coming weeks. The project is designed to modernize Pakistan’s border infrastructure, improve logistics, and facilitate regional trade.
The delegation also highlighted Pakistan’s active role in implementing the Regional Trade and Investment Facilitation Partnership (CARIF) framework, which is entering its operational phase. The initiative seeks to improve trade facilitation, strengthen logistics cooperation, and boost cross-border investment across CAREC member states.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for the CAREC Ministerial Conference and Business Forum, scheduled to be held in Mongolia on September 29–30, 2026. The CAREC Secretariat formally invited Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan to participate in the event, which will bring together ministers, senior government officials, development partners, international investors, and private sector representatives from across the region.
According to the delegation, the Business Forum will focus on key areas including logistics, energy security, critical minerals, digital connectivity, investment opportunities, and private sector collaboration. It also shared plans to establish a Regional Chambers Alliance, supported by the ADB, to strengthen business-to-business cooperation among Chambers of Commerce and Industry across CAREC member countries.
The CAREC Secretariat further briefed the minister on the ADB-supported Digital Corridor Study, which involves Pakistan and several other CAREC member states. The study aims to improve regional digital connectivity and support greater economic integration through enhanced digital infrastructure.
Speaking during the meeting, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan appreciated the continued support of CAREC and the Asian Development Bank in promoting regional economic cooperation. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening regional trade, improving cross-border connectivity, and expanding investment partnerships within the CAREC region.
The proposed border infrastructure upgrade and digital connectivity initiatives are expected to improve trade efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and enhance Pakistan’s position as a key transit and trade hub linking Central Asia with South Asia and beyond.