Pakistan, Iran Discuss Boost to Road, Rail, and Trade Links
Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan meets Iranian counterpart to review cross-border cooperation at Joint Economic Commission.
Tehran, September 15, 2025 — Pakistan and Iran have reaffirmed their commitment to expand trade and connectivity, with Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan holding bilateral talks with Iran’s Minister of Road and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, on the sidelines of the 22nd Pakistan–Iran Joint Economic Commission.
The two sides, accompanied by senior officials from their respective delegations, reviewed progress on several priority areas, including road and rail connectivity, facilitation of cross-border markets, customs data sharing, and the enhancement of maritime services. Both ministers emphasized that improved infrastructure and institutional coordination are essential for boosting bilateral trade and strengthening people-to-people linkages.
Minister Khan conveyed appreciation for Iran’s role in hosting the commission session and underscored that Pakistan places high priority on deepening economic ties with Tehran. He said Islamabad views connectivity and structured cooperation as vital components of regional stability and prosperity.
Iranian Minister Farzaneh Sadegh echoed the importance of collaborative initiatives, noting that improved road and maritime facilities would directly benefit communities on both sides of the border. The ministers agreed that mechanisms such as customs data sharing and market facilitation could play a crucial role in removing trade bottlenecks and creating a more predictable environment for businesses.
The Pakistan–Iran Joint Economic Commission, which has met periodically since the 1990s, remains the highest bilateral forum for advancing economic cooperation. Past sessions have focused on trade barriers, energy projects, and cross-border security, but the latest meeting placed stronger emphasis on infrastructure-driven connectivity and the creation of border markets to encourage legal trade flows.Senate Panel Urges To Resolve Barter trade Issues with Iran
Officials from both countries noted that while bilateral trade remains below potential, there is increasing recognition of the opportunities in sectors such as transport, energy, and agriculture. Strengthening road and rail links between Gwadar, Chabahar, and border regions is seen as a key driver for future growth, particularly in aligning with broader regional trade corridors.
The session concluded with both sides agreeing to continue technical consultations on customs and infrastructure projects while exploring new avenues for cooperation under the Joint Economic Commission’s umbrella. Read More Stories on NewzToday
