PESHAWAR: In a recent interview, Yusuf Saleem, former federal secretary for trade and commerce, highlighted the significant economic potential for Pakistan in utilizing the Wakhan trade route to access Central Asian markets. This alternative route could substantially reduce costs and ensure timely transportation of goods, leading to a 33% growth in exports to Central Asian countries during the initial nine months of FY2022-23, reaching $166.205 million.
The Wakhan Corridor, historically a crucial route connecting China, Iran, Central Asia, and the Indian Subcontinent, is seen as a strategic pathway for Pakistan. Saleem emphasized Pakistan’s strengths in textiles, garments, and leather goods, suggesting that exporting these products could tap into the demand in Central Asian markets.
Beyond goods, the corridor also holds potential for energy resources. Saleem highlighted its role in facilitating the transit of energy supplies between Central Asian countries and Pakistan, contributing to energy security.
Speaking on the geopolitical landscape, Saleem expressed optimism despite challenges. He sees the Wakhan Corridor as a means for China to extend economic cooperation to Afghanistan, creating the most direct route for China to access major projects in Afghanistan while providing Afghanistan with the shortest path to the vast Chinese market.
Despite geopolitical complexities and security concerns, Saleem remains hopeful that with coordinated regional efforts, the Wakhan Corridor can become functional for the collective benefit of South Asian countries, especially Pakistan.
