Addressing the 2nd OIC Conference of Transport Ministers (OICCTM) in Istanbul today, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Communications emphasized that physical, economic, and digital connectivity have emerged as the primary drivers of prosperity, stability, and collective growth.
Speaking in the historic city of Istanbul, the Minister underscored that in an increasingly interconnected world, no nation can achieve sustainable progress in isolation. He praised Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an's vision that has transformed Türkiye over the past two decades. He further positioned Pakistan as a natural gateway for regional and inter-regional trade, citing its strategic location at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Far East.
The Minister detailed Pakistan’s substantial investments in modernizing its transport and logistics infrastructure, which includes high-speed motorways, railways, and ports designed to link urban centers with international gateways. A central focus of this transformation is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC); the Minister noted that the project is now entering "CPEC 2.0," a phase dedicated to industrial development and inclusive investment opportunities for OIC Member States. At the heart of this network is Gwadar Port, which the Minister highlighted as a vital deep-sea hub offering the shortest maritime access for landlocked Central Asian states.
In addition to physical infrastructure, the address highlighted Pakistan’s rapid digital transformation and its commitment to international transit standards. The Minister reported that the country is implementing e-port integration and paperless transit systems, while also expanding E-visa facilities to 126 countries to facilitate business and tourism. Furthermore, Pakistan has seen a dramatic increase in TIR operations—growing from a single movement in 2019 to over 1,500 last year—and stands ready to implement e-TIR to harmonize regional logistics.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to working with OIC member states to streamline cross-border logistics and mobilize joint investments. He envisioned a future where transport corridors are transformed into "true corridors of opportunity," facilitating the free and sustainable movement of goods, energy, data, and people across the region.
The Conference was attended by the OIC Ministers for Transport and other relevant delegates. Türkiye’s Minister for Transport, Mr. Abdulkadir Uralo?lu made the opening remarks on the occasion.
