![Pakistan-Russia rail link to launch in 2025 via Turkmenistan-Iran route, boosting trade and reducing transport costs. [Image via The News]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1258327_3358570_Awais-Leghari_akhbar.webp)
A historic rail link between Pakistan and Russia is on the horizon, with the inaugural test cargo train slated to reach Pakistan by March 2025. “On the issue of connectivity, both the countries signed the protocol in Moscow. The train from Russia will adopt the route of Turkmenistan-Iran and then through Taftan it will enter Pakistan. This would be a landmark initiative providing impetus to the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Russia,” a senior Pakistan government official from Moscow told The News. “Top officials of Pakistan Railways worked hard in Moscow to make progress on the issue of connectivity 7-8 days before the IGC (Inter-Governmental Commission) meeting.”
Also See: Pakistan and Russia Ink Historic Barter Trade Deal
Boost to Trade and Connectivity
Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, who headed the Pakistan delegation in the IGC meeting, spoke to the Russian media. He confirmed that both sides had agreed on rail connectivity. He also stated that they had signed the protocol. The train, the official said, would take 2-3 weeks to arrive in Pakistan. The FBR will resolve issues regarding the appointment of customs officials at Pakistan’s entry point with time.
To a question, he said that they did not sign the proper MoU because the federal cabinet needs to approve it. “A rail link between Russia and Pakistan would provide an efficient and cost-effective route for the transport of goods. This could significantly boost trade in energy resources, agricultural products, minerals, machinery, and consumer goods.”
The rail link, he said, would allow Russia to export oil, natural gas, machinery, steel, and other industrial goods to Pakistan.
It would also give Pakistan access to Russian markets for its exports, including textiles, food products, and agricultural goods. “This corridor could facilitate the transport of rice, wheat, and cotton from Pakistan to Russia, as well as the movement of manufactured goods and electronics.”
Rail Connectivity to Streamline Regional Trade Routes
The development of a direct rail network would help reduce transportation costs by shortening travel times. It would also reduce reliance on sea routes or air cargo, which are generally more expensive and slower. An operational railway link exists between Turkmenistan and Iran. This link connects the Turkmen town of Serkhetabat, near the Turkmenistan-Iran border, to Mashhad in Iran.
The Zahedan-Mirjaveh railway connects Iran and Pakistan. The Taftan station in Pakistan also connects to Iran. This line connects the Iranian city of Zahedan to the Pakistani border town of Mirjaveh, facilitating trade and passenger movement between the two countries.
This news is sourced from The News and is intended for informational purposes only.
