Uzbekistan Studies Rail Link to Pakistan via Afghanistan

A train rests on the railroad that runs from Uzbekistan to Afghanistan’s Mazar-e-Sharif. Uzbek and Pakistani executives discuss the feasibility of a secure and reliable freight rail line connecting their countries, as well as multimodal transportation of goods, via Afghanistan. Photo: Army Sgt. Michael Reinsch, IJC Public Affairs

Uzbekistan is exploring a new freight rail corridor to Pakistan through Afghanistan as part of efforts to secure seaport access and expand trade routes, officials and media reported on Thursday.

Executives from state-owned Uzbekistan Railways held talks in Tashkent on October 30 with Pakistan-based logistics company SLG Trax Group to examine the feasibility of a secure and reliable rail connection, as well as multimodal cargo transport options. The discussions did not result in a formal agreement but both sides agreed to coordinate on developing routes through third countries and harmonising logistics approaches, according to Uzbek outlet UzDaily.

Any future line would run through Afghanistan, requiring engagement with authorities in Kabul to secure transit guarantees. The route is seen as a potential strategic link that could support expanding Central Asia’s supply chains and enable access to warm-water ports.

Tashkent has been actively seeking seaport access, including exploring use of Iran’s Chabahar port earlier this year. That option gained new momentum after India announced the United States granted a six-month sanctions waiver for Chabahar on October 30.

A rail link to Pakistan could also align with US and EU interests in opening Central Asian pathways for critical minerals. However, Pakistan’s key port at Gwadar is operated by China, adding geopolitical complexity to the initiative.