Transportation links between Turkey-Pakistan to be improved

ANKARA, 17 October 2012:  In order to boost economic relations and people to people contact between Pakistan and Turkey, the existing rail, road and air links shall be further improved. Pakistan’s Minister of State/Chairman Board of Investment Mr. Saleem H. Mandviwalla discussed these proposals in a meeting with Turkish Minister for Transport, Maritime Affairs and Communications Mr. Binali Yildirim here today.

The Turkish Minister agreed with Mr. Mandviwala on the need for improving existing cargo train operations. Mr. Yildirim also suggested increasing the frequency of flights between the two countries. He said Pakistan is a brotherly country and there are many venues of collaboration in trade and investment.

Mr. Mandviwalla, who is visiting Turkey as a Special Envoy of President of Pakistan, said coming to Turkey is like coming to his second home. He said more connectivity will automatically increase people to people contacts. He showed his optimism that existing cargo train “Gul train” running on pilot basis between Pakistan and Turkey is a viable commercial venture. After increasing the frequency of this cargo train, both countries will commence passenger train, added the visiting dignitary.

Secretary Commerce Mr. Munir Qureshi, Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkey Mr. Muhammad Haroon Shaukat and Consul General Istanbul Dr. Yusuf Junaid were also present in the meeting.

ENDS

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