Khalilzad Welcomes Uzbekistan’s Support for Afghan-Trans Railway Project
Zalmay Khalilzad, former US envoy for Afghan peace, has welcomed Uzbekistan’s President’s support for the Afghan-Trans railway project, calling it an important step to connect Central Asia to Afghanistan, South Asia, and ultimately the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
In a statement, Khalilzad said that the realization of this transit corridor could enhance economic prosperity and strengthen stability in Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. He added that the project has the potential to transform Afghanistan into a vital transit hub in the region, a position it has been deprived of for years due to war and instability.
He described the strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan as one of the main obstacles to implementing this strategic plan and emphasized that common economic interests should encourage both sides to engage in dialogue and reach diplomatic agreements. Khalilzad further stated that economic corridors succeed only when political and security disagreements are resolved through interaction.
According to him, the Taliban administration has also expressed interest in advancing this project. However, the practical realization of such a large-scale plan requires building regional trust, ensuring lasting security, and establishing responsible relations with neighbors—issues that still face challenges under current conditions.
Khalilzad also called on Pakistan’s military leadership to adopt a positive and constructive approach toward the project, urging both sides to focus on future opportunities and avoid repeating past mistakes. The Afghan-Trans railway project aims to connect Central Asia to Pakistani ports via Afghanistan and is considered one of the key regional connectivity initiatives.
