Minister for Planning and Reform Makhdum Khusro Bakhtyar has underscored the importance of greater connectivity to stimulate regional economic cooperation.

He was talking to Ambassador of Tajikistan Ismatullo Nasredin, who called on him in Islamabad on Friday. 

Talking about CASA-1000, the Minister said Pakistan attaches great priority to timely completion of the project as it will meet its energy needs.

Khusro Bakhtyar apprised the Tajik Ambassador that the project has been referred to ECNEC with the condition that the sponsors will ensure timely finalization of agreement with the member countries for export of surplus power during non-supply period.

Highlighting the importance of Torkhum-Dushanbe Economic Corridor, the Minister noted that the proposed project will connect Torkhum to Dushanbe via Afghanistan.

He said Pakistan is willing to go ahead with the initiative if there is a trilateral agreement between Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan.

Speaking on the occasion, Tajikistan ambassador said his country is looking forward to further expand bilateral cooperation with Pakistan in various areas including trade and energy.

Chairing the 1st Board of Directors meeting of Public Private Partnership Authority in Islamabad today, Federal Minister for Planning and Reform Makhdum Khusro Bakhtyar said public-private partnership, BoT and other modes would be utilized to finance infrastructure projects to enhance the role of the private sector.

The meeting was given briefing on the role and functions of the Authority. The Board directed to initiate the process of appointing two members from private sector as well as to fast track the process of appointment of CEO of the Authority.

The Board also accorded approval to an infrastructure project of NUST titled 'National Science & Technology Park Project' to initiate the procurement process as per provisions of PPP Act-2017. The Board gave approval to budget of the Authority for financial year 2018-19.