Pakistan on Monday sought Turkey's investment in Quetta-Taftan and Quetta-Gwadar railway section to fully connect the seaport with other parts of the region including Central Asia. This was confirmed to Business Recorder by Ali Nawaz Malik, spokesperson for Pakistan Railways, after an eight-member delegation of Turkish State Railways companies Talamsas and Raymisas visited the ministry. The delegation also met Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmed here on Monday.

However, the official confirmed that the revival of Pakistan-Iran-Turkey train service (formerly known as ECO train) was not discussed. He said that due to dilapidated state of track, ECO train service could not be re-launched anytime soon.

Malik said that Turkey has shown interest in helping to upgrade Pakistan Railways and its operations.

The railways minister appraised the delegation of the policies of the Pakistan Railways. He also invited the delegation to invest in Pakistan. He said both the countries have brotherly relations. "Turk companies must come here and make an investment," added the minister.

Rashid said Pakistan is upgrading its rail network with international partnership. He welcomed Turkish interest in Pakistan Railways. He said, "All projects of Pakistan Railways are open for Turkish companies and we are ready to work with them."

Rashid said Pakistan will definitely benefit from the Turkish expertise and experience for upgradation of Risalpur Locomotive and Railway carriage factories. The railways minister said the entire region could be connected through railways which will usher in a new era of development. The Turkish delegation will visit different facilities of Pakistan Railways during its five day tour.

During the discussion, Rashid Ahmed said that the government is planning to construct Quetta-Taftan and Quetta-Gwadar section on modern lines. Turkish investment on the project would be welcomed as it would enhance regional connectivity, investment, economic and trade relations, the minister added.

Quetta-Taftan railway line is one of four main railway lines in Pakistan operated and maintained by Pakistan Railways. The line begins from Quetta station and ends at Koh-e-Taftan station.

The total length of this railway line is 325 kilometres. There are 23 railway stations from Queta to Koh-e-Taftan. The line then crosses into Iran and extends to Zahedan.

Pakistan will also acquire benefit from the experience of Turkey and it will be beneficial for economies of both the countries, the minister added.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2019