Significance of transport corridors underscored: Pakistan, Tajikistan commit early rollout of CASA-1000

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Tajikistan underscored the significance of regional transport corridors and reaffirmed their commitment to the early operationalisation of CASA-1000, aimed at strengthening regional integration and energy security, the Foreign Office said on Thursday.

The Central Asia-South Asia power project, commonly known by its acronym CASA-1000, is a USD1.16 billion under-construction project to allow the import of surplus hydroelectricity from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Pakistan via Afghanistan. The groundbreaking of the flagship project was performed in 2016, whereas the completion was originally scheduled for 2025.

This was agreed during the 6th Session of Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC) between Pakistan and Tajikistan, which was held in Dushanbe on 29–30 September 2025.

The Pakistani delegation was led by Additional Foreign Secretary (West Asia and Afghanistan), Syed Ali Asad Gillani, while the Tajik side was headed by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Farrukh Sharifzoda.

Discussions covered a wide range of bilateral matters, including political and parliamentary ties, trade and investment, defence and security, energy, connectivity, cultural and educational exchanges, multilateral cooperation and consular affairs, the Foreign Office statement remarked.

Both sides noted the positive trajectory of bilateral ties and emphasized the role of high-level visits, which continue to provide renewed impetus to the partnership.

Both sides explored avenues to enhance trade, particularly through increased collaboration in textiles, logistics, agriculture and food, and pharmaceuticals.

Defence and security cooperation was reviewed, with discussions covering counter-terrorism efforts, training programs, and exchange of visits.

The two sides exchanged views on regional and international issues, including developments in South Asia and the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir. Both sides emphasized the importance of diplomacy and adherence to the principles of the UN Charter in resolving conflicts.

The consultations were held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere. Both sides agreed to hold the 7th session of Bilateral Political Consultations in Islamabad in 2026.

During the visit, the Additional Secretary had meetings with First Deputy Minister of Transport; the Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade, and the Director of the Centre for Advanced Training of Diplomats. He also visited Panj Free Economic Zone (FEZ) and the Commercial Customs Facility at Panji Payon.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025