Pakistan has invited Saudi Arabia to invest in three major motorway projects to strengthen its economic and infrastructure partnership. The proposal was made during the Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference (PIMEC 2025) in Karachi. Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan met with Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Aljasser, to discuss possible investment opportunities in Pakistan’s transport sector.
Meeting Highlights at PIMEC 2025
During the meeting, Aleem Khan highlighted Pakistan’s growing transport and logistics network. He said the government is focusing on improving the country’s road connectivity to support trade and development. He also noted that Pakistan’s motorway system is self-sustaining due to an effective toll collection mechanism. This system ensures that the revenue generated is reinvested into maintaining and expanding the network.
Expansion of Pakistan’s Motorway Network
The Minister explained that Pakistan’s Ministry of Communications and the National Highway Authority (NHA) are actively expanding the motorway system. The new routes will link the northern regions with key urban and economic centers, making travel faster and safer. This expansion will also help strengthen trade routes and promote better regional integration, allowing goods to move more easily across the country.
Invitation for Saudi Investment
Aleem Khan extended an invitation for Saudi investment in three major motorway projects:
| Project Name | Route | Purpose / Importance | Opportunities for Investment |
| M-6 Motorway | Sukkur – Hyderabad | Connects interior Sindh with major trade routes and the southern port city | Construction, toll operations, and maintenance contracts |
| M-10 Motorway | Hyderabad – Karachi Port | Strengthens access to Karachi Port and boosts logistics efficiency | Development of cargo hubs and transport facilities |
| M-13 Motorway | Kharian – Rawalpindi | Links northern Punjab with Islamabad and the central economic zones | Infrastructure financing and technology integration |
| MNJC Road | Mansehra – Naran – Jalkhad – Chilas | Promotes tourism and trade in the northern areas | Investment in tourism infrastructure and roadside facilities |
Mutual Benefits for Both Nations
“Pakistan welcomes Saudi participation in its infrastructure journey, offering mutually beneficial opportunities in transport and logistics,” stated Aleem Khan. He added that Saudi investment would not only help modernize Pakistan’s transport system but also strengthen the economic bond between the two brotherly nations. Such cooperation could open new doors for trade and regional development in South Asia and the Middle East.
Saudi Response and Future Cooperation
In response, the Saudi Minister, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Aljasser, appreciated Pakistan’s infrastructure development efforts. He also sought Pakistan’s support in the upcoming International Maritime Organization (IMO) elections. Furthermore, he expressed interest in increasing cooperation in technology, road safety, and logistics. Both sides agreed that their collaboration could play a key role in promoting regional progress and connectivity.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen ties under the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA). This collaboration marks a new chapter in their partnership, focusing on long-term economic and infrastructure cooperation. With growing trust and shared goals, both nations look forward to a future where strategic investments pave the way for prosperity and mutual growth.
