Gilgit, 28 August 2023 (TDI): Pakistan and China have marked a significant milestone by inaugurating the first international road transport trade route under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.
This development, which took place on the 10th anniversary of the CPEC project, aims to facilitate cross-border trade with landlocked nations and strengthen economic ties between Pakistan and China.
The inaugural shipment, organized by China, successfully reached the Khunjerab Border and is en route to Afghanistan via the Karakoram Highway.
This achievement fortifies the economic relationship between Pakistan and China and establishes a crucial land route for connecting Central Asian countries.
The National Logistics Corporation (NLC) of Pakistan and Chinese company Siva Logistics have initiated bilateral transit trade operations to enhance efficiency and security in cross-border shipments.
The collaboration leverages the United Nations International Road Transport Convention (TIR) to streamline customs procedures and ensure the swift movement of goods across borders.
Kashgar, a city in China, has been designated as a national logistics centre for 2023, highlighting its strategic importance in facilitating international trade.
This development of a trade route has been warmly embraced by the local population of Gilgit-Baltistan, coinciding with the commencement of international flights from Skardu International Airport.
It signifies a crucial advancement in fostering trade and connectivity between Pakistan and China.
It also underscores the strategic role of the CPEC project in enhancing economic ties and establishing vital land routes for linking Central Asian countries.
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The commencement of cross-border trade under the United Nations IRT coincides with the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.
It was marked by an official ceremony at the Kashgar Yuanfang International Logistics Port Company.
The event was attended by representatives from NLC, Kashgar Customs, Municipal Committee officials, CEVA Logistics, and the Cross-Border E-Commerce Association.
During the ceremony, speakers emphasized the significance of the TIR transport route from Kashgar to Islamabad and discussed future transportation plans between the two countries.
The initiative will create an efficient and secure land route for landlocked Central Asian states, speeding up and safeguarding the cross-border movement of goods due to simplified and coordinated customs procedures. This will not only save time but also reduce costs.
