On 19th July 2022, a radio program on "Regional Connectivity of Pakistan with Central Asian Countries vis-a-vis China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)" was organized and hosted by, Radio Pakistan, Islamabad.
CPEC is recognized as one of the biggest bilateral cooperation of Pakistan within the South Asian region. To fully reap the benefits of this project both within Pakistan and regionally, Mr. Akram elaborated three main aspects. First, the importance of assessing the trade laws of each country. Pakistan must analyze its position in Central Asian markets, and thus the know-how of its background is required. Pakistan differs substantially in its trade laws being a former British colony. On the other hand, the Central Asian countries were an asset to the USSR before its dismemberment and their laws have a different outlook. Thus a difference in perspective, history, and rationale for these laws needs a thorough assessment.
Second, the subject of regional currency exchange and the hurdles faced by its lack contemporarily were discussed by Mr. Akram. He stated that there is a need for currency exchange agreements between countries to promote ease of traveling, and doing business. Lastly, he suggested that banking agreements should be encouraged as well. This can only be achieved if the laws of the Central Asian countries are studied, molded, and then implemented at regional level.