Book unlocks potential of Pakistan, Central Asia connectivity

Islamabad:In an age where regional integration hinges on effective connectivity, Pakistan’s strategic geographical position offers a vital gateway to landlocked Central Asian states, a cost-effective and strategically advantageous trading partner for Pakistan. Realising the trade potential between these regions, however, requires overcoming policy, technical, and regional challenges through collaboration and visionary strategies.

This was the central theme at the launch event for ‘Bridging Horizons: Unravelling the Enigma of Connectivity between Pakistan and Central Asia,’ a book jointly authored by Dr Faisal Javaid, Dr Uzma Siraj, and Prof Dr Arkadiusz ukowski and published by IPS Press – the publishing arm of the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), Islamabad.

The book explores the historical, economic, and policy-driven dimensions of Pakistan-Central Asia relations, offering actionable insights into challenges and opportunities for fostering stronger ties.

During the launch ceremony, hosted by the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology here and attended by scholars, diplomats, policymakers and students, IPS chairman Khalid Rahman elaborated on Pakistan’s unique geographical position at the crossroads of South, Central, and West Asia.

He argued that this strategic advantage provides Pakistan an unparalleled opportunity to become a hub of regional connectivity. “To realise this potential, there is a need for not just visionary strategies but consistent policy implementation and proactive regional collaboration as well. Comprehensive integration strategies and foresight are essential to achieve meaningful regional connectivity and national benefit,” he said.

Emphasising the book’s central thesis, head IR Department at FUUAST Dr Uzma Siraj underscored that connectivity is the cornerstone of regional integration, where Pakistan’s strategic location connects landlocked Central Asian states to global markets. She noted that while the trade potential between Pakistan and Central Asian countries is immense, achieving this requires overcoming a multitude of challenges. The book presents actionable strategies to enhance connectivity, including exploring alternative routes, according to her.

In addition to exploring routes, it is important to ensure policy implementation and translate agreements into actions, noted former Ambassador to Uzbekistan Riaz Hussain Bukhari.

He said it had became urgent as Pakistan had signed over 255 bilateral and multilateral MoUs, protocols, and agreements with Central Asian countries since 1991. He projected that bilateral trade could grow to $4 billion with robust policies and investments.

Former ambassador Abrar Hussain said the book provided insights to recognize mutual opportunities and build upon the historical connections, as Central Asia and Pakistan have multidimensional historical, cultural, and trade ties dating back to the Indus Valley civilization. He highlighted Pakistan’s efforts following the disintegration of the USSR to strengthen these ties, referencing initiatives such as TAPI, CASA-1000, and the Trans-Afghan Railway.

FUUAST associate professor Dr Ihtshamul Haq delved into the trade potential between Pakistan and Central Asia. Citing the Gravity Model of International Trade, he explained how Central Asia represents a cost-effective and strategically advantageous trading partner for Pakistan.