News DeskAbu Dhabi, UAE – Pakistan is aggressively pursuing a sustainable, modern future for its railway system, with a focus on major corridor upgrades and strengthening regional connectivity, as articulated by a senior Pakistani official at the Global Rail Conference and Exhibition in Abu Dhabi.
The conference, which runs from September 30 to October 2, has gathered transport ministers and industry giants to chart the future of global rail and infrastructure development.
Kiyani, a prominent figure in Pakistan’s transport sector, underscored the crucial link between infrastructure and economic health during the high-level Ministerial Panel Discussion, “Building Connected Nations: The Role of Transport and Infrastructure in Sustainable Development.”
“It goes without saying that infrastructure and economic prosperity are intertwined,” Kiyani noted, highlighting that strong transport links are key to unlocking growth, creating jobs, and facilitating seamless regional integration. He referenced Pakistan’s recent successes, including its vast motorway network, which has significantly improved provincial connectivity and boosted national freight movement.
Focus on Rail Transformation
The core of Kiyani’s message was Pakistan’s ambitious plan to transform its railway sector into an efficient, reliable, and environmentally sustainable backbone of its national transport system.
He specifically pointed to the crucial upgradation of the ML-1 and ML-3 railway corridors. These projects are essential not only for aligning Pakistan’s rail network with international standards but also for significantly boosting regional trade and connectivity.
UAE Collaboration in Sight
Leveraging the platform of the Global Rail Conference, Mr. Kiyani held a series of strategic engagements with key international stakeholders, aiming to secure collaborative opportunities in rail and infrastructure development.
A highlight of his time on the sidelines was a significant meeting with Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail. The two leaders discussed potential avenues for cooperation between Pakistan Railways and Etihad Rail in critical areas such as freight logistics, technological exchange, and network development.
Kiyani further explored regional innovations by visiting the exhibition stalls of Etihad Rail and Hafeet Rail, gaining first-hand insight into the latest advancements in Gulf rail infrastructure.
Pakistan’s strong presence at the 2025 conference reflects its commitment to forging strategic international partnerships and advancing sustainable transport solutions that will underpin the nation’s long-term economic development and connectivity goals.
