ISLAMABAD: Communications Secretary Shoaib Ahmad Siddiqui has said thatcooperation between Pakistan and China in trade, industry and tourismsectors would ultimately prepare an ideal ground for the economic uplift ofthe South Asian region.
Siddiqui said this while signing the agreed minutes upon the conclusion ofa two-day experts group meeting on ‘International Road Transport at theMinistry of Communications’.
Ministry of Communications Senior Joint Secretary Altaf Asghar andXinjiang’s Transportation Department Deputy Party Secretary Lin Ping signedthe minutes.
In order to promote bilateral trade relations between Pakistan and China inthe context of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the meeting ofPakistan-China experts group on international road transport was held atthe Ministry of Communications.
On the first day, the experts group from both sides discussed in detailsmatters pertaining to the exchange of information about China-Pakistaninternational transport volume during 2018, present condition of KarakoramHighway, restoration of Kashgar-Gilgit Bus Service and commencement of busservice from Lahore and Islamabad to Kashgar, routine mechanism for holdingof bilateral talks on regular basis and grant of multiple entries visas tothe drivers/crew members.
The meeting also reviewed problems being faced by the transport companiesand facilitation measures taken in this regard by both sides. Proposal forthe opening of Pak-China border seven days a week was also considered.
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The meeting was informed that due to extreme weather conditions atKhunjerab Top, Pak-China border remains closed almost four months,affecting trade and business activities. Both the sides discussed ways tominimize this closure time.
It was also told in the meeting that the construction work ofHavelian-Thakot section was in progress and hopefully will be completed byMarch 2020.
The meeting also reviewed to obtain services of more than one bus operatorsfrom both sides that will ultimately pave the way to ensure qualityservices for cross border transportation of passengers and freight. Inorder to expand the range of trade relationship between Pakistan and Chinaand to facilitate the transportation of passengers and goods, both thesides desired implementation of the Bilateral Road Transport Agreement inan effective manner.
