Pakistan has expressed strong support for the development of the CAREC Digital Corridor, a regional initiative aimed at strengthening secure and resilient digital connectivity across Central Asia. Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan proposed the formation of a joint working group during the 24th CAREC Ministerial Conference held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, on November 20, 2025. The initiative is expected to route regional internet traffic through Pakistan’s international gateways while enabling smoother cross-border data flows and supporting regional digital trade, financial integration, and e-governance efforts.
The Minister highlighted Pakistan’s readiness to collaborate with the Asian Development Bank and member countries on the feasibility, design, and financing of the digital corridor. In addition to digital connectivity, Pakistan also expressed interest in extending support for regional digitization programs, including the next phase of the CAREC Advanced Transit System–Information Common Exchange, known as CATS-ICE, as well as the electronic exchange of conformity certificates under CARTIF. Technical assistance is expected to be provided through Pakistan Single Window to harmonize digital systems among CAREC member states, reflecting the country’s commitment to regional collaboration in digital infrastructure.
Abdul Aleem Khan underscored Pakistan’s recent progress in trade facilitation and digital reforms as a foundation for regional initiatives. This includes the passage of the Land Port Authority Act 2025, expansion of the TIR and eTIR transit system, rollout of electronic certificates via Pakistan Single Window, and the continued growth of the RAAST retail payments network. These efforts align with CAREC’s focus on connectivity, sustainability, and digital transformation, demonstrating Pakistan’s proactive approach to integrating modern digital tools into trade and transport networks.
On climate and sustainability, Pakistan welcomed the establishment of the Climate and Sustainability Project Preparatory Fund, emphasizing its importance for countries facing high climate vulnerability. Minister Khan called on ADB to consider concessional resources to operationalize the fund and highlighted the CAREC Climate Action Plan’s focus on adaptation and resilience amid increasing economic impacts of extreme weather. Pakistan also supported the timely implementation of the Rolling Action Plan and the development partners’ retreat, which aims to align financing with the region’s multi-year project pipeline and mobilize private investment in infrastructure and climate initiatives. Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja was part of Pakistan’s delegation, contributing to discussions on regional digital integration and cross-border collaboration.
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