ISLAMABAD * – The government of Pakistan has invited Iranian companies toinvest in country’s railway industry to improve rail systems of Pakistan.*

Pakistan’s Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique floated thesuggestion during a meeting with Iran’s Minister for Roads and UrbanDevelopment Abbas Akhundi at Ministry of Railways in Islamabad.

Pakistani minister in the meeting said that enhancing cooperation with Iranin all areas especially the rail sector is Pakistan’s top priority.

Meanwhile, Abbas Akhundi emphasized the expansion of Iran-Pakistancooperation, calling for the early launch of the railway line projectbetween Gwadar and Chabahar.

He also emphasized on enhancing cooperation between Iran, Pakistan andTurkey for extension of cargo trains.

Pakistan–Iran Passenger Train, Tourist Train, Special Train during Muharram(mourning month of Shia Muslims) were also discussed during the meeting.

Saad Rafique in the meeting welcomed Iranian companies to improveQuetta–Taftan rail section on BOT basis. Due to development in this sectionthe time of expedition will be shortened to 8 hours from 20 hours.

He commented that both nations have close relations with each other.

He asked for makeup of Joint Group for Pakistan and Iran rail relations,adding that Zubair Shafi Ghauri, Secretary Railway Board, Ministry ofRailways will be the focal person of the group.

Abbas Akhundi, heading a high level delegation, arrived in Pakistan onThursday on an official three-day visit for talks with the country’sofficials.