Islamabad: Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema has extended an invitation to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to consider co-financing the Main Line-1 (ML-1) Railway project.

According to Radio Pakistan, Ahad Cheema, in a meeting with JICA President Dr. Tanaka Akihiko in Islamabad, highlighted that the Asian Development Bank and other development partners are already backing this strategic initiative. Cheema emphasized that the modernization of the ML-1 would bolster Pakistan's transportation network, facilitate trade, enhance industrial connectivity, and significantly contribute to sustainable economic growth.

In response, Dr. Tanaka recognized the project's importance and stated that JICA would consider the proposal. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening Pakistan-Japan development cooperation and agreed to continue engaging closely to identify new collaboration opportunities. These opportunities include sectors such as infrastructure development, human resource development, digital transformation, and tourism, all aiming to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Pakistan.