BEIJING: China and Pakistan issued a joint declaration emphasizing the critical role of the Khunjerab Pass Port in promoting bilateral trade, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people connectivity.

Situated at the China-Pakistan border, the Khunjerab Pass Port has long been acknowledged as a vital trade gateway due to its strategic location in the Karakoram mountain range.

A significant development outlined in the declaration is the decision to keep the Khunjerab Pass Port open throughout the year, discontinuing its previous seasonal operation due to extreme weather conditions, CEN reported on Tuesday.

This decision is expected to greatly facilitate the expansion of bilateral trade, enabling uninterrupted commerce between businesses in both countries.

Furthermore, China and Pakistan have agreed to strengthen the development and management of border port infrastructure, which includes investments in modern facilities, efficient customs procedures, and streamlined logistics operations.

By enhancing the capacity and efficiency of the Khunjerab Pass Port, both countries aim to facilitate smoother trade flows, reduce transit times, and ultimately benefit businesses while boosting economic growth.

This joint declaration was made just ahead of the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, where China and Pakistan are slated to showcase their commitment to fostering economic cooperation and regional integration.

The year-round opening of the Khunjerab Pass Port and the focus on improving border infrastructure align perfectly with the objectives of the CIIE, highlighting the dedication of both nations to strengthening trade collaboration and enhancing connectivity.

Newspakistan.tv/APP/AFP