Latest news with #UAP
AllAfrica
12 hours ago
- Business
- AllAfrica
Trans-Afghan peace train pact puts trade over turmoil
On July 17, 2025, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan signed a trilateral Framework Agreement on the Joint Feasibility Study of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (UAP) Railway Project during a high-level meeting in Kabul. This agreement marks a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen regional connectivity and economic integration by linking Central Asia with South Asia through a strategic rail corridor. The planned route will pass through Termez in Uzbekistan, Mazar-i-Sharif and Logar in Afghanistan and enter Pakistan via the Khyber Pass, ultimately connecting to Pakistani seaports. All three countries reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful cooperation, enhanced trade and shared regional prosperity. The railway is envisioned to facilitate both passenger and freight services while supporting bilateral, regional and transit trade. The Trans-Afghan Railway, initially proposed in 2018, is projected to span over 700 kilometers across Afghanistan and drastically reduce transport time from Central Asia to the Arabian Sea from several weeks to just a few days. Upon successful completion, the railway is expected to carry up to 20 million tons of cargo annually, establishing a vital trade corridor between Central Asia and seaports. This would significantly lower shipping costs, enhance trade efficiency and provide Afghanistan with much-needed transit revenue. The project has drawn interest from international stakeholders, including Russia, Iran and financial institutions, though political instability and funding gaps, especially within Afghanistan have posed challenges. Nonetheless, the recent trilateral agreement signals renewed momentum and a strong political will to move the project forward. Afghan officials have welcomed the development as a critical step toward regional economic integration, emphasizing that improved infrastructure could contribute to long-term stability and development in Afghanistan. UAP Trans-Afghan Railway project holds profound strategic significance for all of Eurasia, promising to transform the region into a hub of trade, connectivity and cooperation. By linking Central Asia to Pakistan's southern ports, the corridor will not only facilitate access to global markets but also play a pivotal role in Afghanistan's economic recovery and integration. The trilateral collaboration between Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan signals a shared vision for regional prosperity, where economic interdependence can help ease political tensions, foster trust and promote long-term stability. As the railway progresses, it is expected to generate thousands of jobs, spur infrastructure development and stimulate key sectors such as agriculture, textiles, construction and logistics. Uzbekistan's commitment to expanding trade ties and enhancing the role of the Termez International Trade Center further underscores the project's potential to become a cornerstone of regional growth and peacebuilding. As part of the next phase of the UAP Railway Project, the three partner nations have agreed to establish a Tripartite Coordination Committee to oversee technical studies, finalize financing models, and manage the overall implementation of the US$4.8 billion project, targeted for completion by 2027. More than just a physical infrastructure initiative, the railway is envisioned as a 'bridge of trust,' reshaping trade routes, unlocking the region's vast economic potential, and fostering political goodwill. Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hailed the agreement as a 'significant milestone' in regional diplomacy, highlighting the deepening cooperation that also led to the recent restoration of full ambassadorial-level ties between Kabul and Islamabad. Although not formally part of the agreement, China has quietly supported the initiative, viewing it as a complementary extension of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Its involvement underscores both Beijing's commitment to regional connectivity and the diminishing role of India in post-2021 Afghanistan. The UAP Railway aligns closely with Pakistan's strategic objective of transforming itself into a vital trade and transit hub connecting Central Asia, China and the Middle East. With growing cooperation with Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, Pakistan is creating new geopolitical space to rebalance its regional posture. This shift enables Islamabad to focus its geopolitical bandwidth more effectively on pressing challenges along its eastern front, particularly its complex relationship with India. The strengthening of western ties through economic corridors not only boosts Pakistan's regional standing but also contributes to long-term stability by integrating fractured economies, reducing mutual mistrust, and promoting shared prosperity across the broader Eurasian region. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, during his second visit to Kabul in three months, also held high-level talks with Afghanistan's acting leadership, including Prime Minister Mullah Hassan Akhund, Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani. The meetings underscored the growing momentum in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, trade, and regional connectivity. Emphasis was given to sustained cooperation to unlock economic opportunities and ensure long-term prosperity across the region. In his discussions with the Afghan leadership, Dar emphasized the importance of addressing key issues, including security, border management, and transit cooperation, stressing that resolving these matters was vital for realizing the full potential of regional integration. The reaffirmation of earlier commitments, including those made in April 2025, reflected a mutual desire to maintain high-level engagement and strengthen bilateral ties in pursuit of common goals. In a nutshell, the UAP Railway Project represents more than just a transport initiative; it is a blueprint for regional transformation through economic integration, strategic cooperation, and mutual trust. While the recent thaw in Pakistani-Taliban relations has provided fresh momentum to expedite progress on the railway, the fragile nature of this détente amid ongoing cross-border militant activity remains a key challenge. Nevertheless, if the current truce between Islamabad and Kabul holds, it could mark a turning point, bringing the three nations significantly closer to realizing a project that promises to reshape trade routes, stimulate economic growth and solidify their roles as vital transit hubs. By investing in connectivity and sustaining political engagement, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan are laying the groundwork for a more stable, prosperous and interconnected Eurasian region where infrastructure serves not only economic goals but also peacebuilding and regional trust. Saima Afzal is an independent and freelance researcher specializing in South Asian security, the Middle East, Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific. Her work focuses on geopolitical developments, strategic affairs and regional conflict dynamics.
Business Recorder
14 hours ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Afghan acting FM to visit Pakistan for high-level talks next month
ISLAMABAD: The Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi, is expected to visit Pakistan early next month along with a delegation for high-level talks for expansion of bilateral economic, trade and political cooperation and reduction of bilateral tension, reliable sources in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) revealed on Monday. This would be Muttaqi's first visit to Pakistan in two years, highlighting the uptick in high-level exchanges between the two neighbouring countries during recent months. Sources said that the final dates for the visit are currently being worked out by Islamabad and Kabul. The visit follows an invitation extended by Deputy Foreign Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar, during his visit to Afghanistan on April 19. Muttaqi's visit will help further promote and strengthen bilateral relations. The ties between Islamabad and Kabul remain tense due to surge in terrorism from across the border. Pakistan had repeatedly urged Afghanistan to stop use of its soil against Pakistan and dismantle Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts. It is worth mentioning here that the two leaders have met several times during last couple of months, including in Beijing, where China hosted an informal trilateral meeting aimed at strengthening Pakistan-Afghanistan ties and promoting regional connectivity. They also held discussions in Istanbul on the sidelines of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting late last month. In a substantial diplomatic development, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to elevate their Charge d'affaires to the level of ambassadors. Pakistan has upgraded Ubaidullah Nizamani to the rank of full Ambassador, while Sardar Shakeeb has been elevated to Ambassador in Islamabad in a tit-for-tat move. Pakistani Foreign Minister Dar also paid an important one-day visit to Kabul last week, accompanied by a high-level Pakistani delegation. During the visit, he held extensive talks with top Afghan leadership on the sidelines of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (UAP) Railway Framework Agreement discussions. Leadership of Pakistan and Afghanistan has agreed to elevate the relationships to new heights. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Dar to attend UN Security Council session next week
FM Ishaq Dar during 51st Council of Foreign Ministers meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation held in Istanbul on June 21. Photo: Listen to article Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will travel to the United States next week to participate in high-level events marking Pakistan's presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York, the Foreign Office said on Saturday. Dar will chair multiple signature events at the UN headquarters, including a high-level open debate on 'Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes.' The session aims to reinforce multilateral diplomacy and mediation as key tools for resolving global conflicts. He will also preside over the UNSC's quarterly open debate on the 'Situation in the Middle East including the Palestinian Question,' underscoring Pakistan's continued focus on long-standing international disputes, the FO added. 🔊PR NO.2️⃣1️⃣2️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣5️⃣ Curtain Raiser: Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister's @MIshaqDar50 Visit to the United States to attend High-level Signature Events of Pakistan's Security Council Presidency. 🔗⬇️ — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) July 19, 2025 In addition, Dar is scheduled to chair a special UNSC briefing on strengthening cooperation between the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), part of Pakistan's broader diplomatic push to link multilateral institutions in pursuit of peace. To reaffirm Pakistan's solidarity with Palestine, the deputy prime minister will attend a high-level conference on the 'Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.' The event is expected to spotlight Islamabad's call for an end to occupation and a just resolution to the decades-old conflict. During his stay in New York, Dar is also expected to hold several bilateral meetings with fellow foreign ministers and senior UN officials. He will later travel to Washington for additional engagements, though specific details of the visit have not yet been announced. Read More: Dar hails UAP railway agreement as milestone in regional connectivity Earlier this week, the Deputy PM visited Afghanistan, where he held a trilateral meeting with the foreign ministers of Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. The meeting reinforced the strong ties among the three nations and their shared commitment to peace, connectivity, trade, and regional development. During his visit, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan signed a trilateral agreement involving a key rail project that is aimed at connecting the three countries. On the sidelines of the signing ceremony of UAP Railway Corridor, Dar met with Afghan Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund. The two leaders discussed key issues of mutual interest, including peace and security, trade and transit cooperation, and regional connectivity.
Irish Independent
3 days ago
- General
- Irish Independent
Sligo County Council invites public to help shape the future of Sligo Town
The consultation will run from 9 July to 22 August 2025. The proposed Urban Area Plan will guide the development and regeneration of Sligo Town and environs over the coming years. To start the conversation, the Council has published an Issues Paper outlining the key issues for Sligo and raising the following questions: How can we make Sligo more walkable and accessible? What kind of housing does Sligo need? Where should community and recreation facilities be improved? What are the best ways to tackle vacancy and dereliction in the town centre? How can we support local businesses and town centre vitality? The Plan will not deal with land zoning—that's already covered under the County Development Plan—but it will get into the finer detail of how Sligo can become a more vibrant, liveable and sustainable town. 'This is your chance to help shape the future of your town,' said Mr Frank Moylan, Senior Planner, Planning Section. 'We want to know what's working, what needs to change, and what kind of town you want Sligo to become.' Several transformative projects are highlighted in the Issues Paper, such as the redevelopment of the Harbour area, a new City Campus including a central library and museum, the delivery of a Wayfinding Strategy and the provision of a network of Green Corridors throughout the town. The UAP will also consider how to make Sligo a '10-minute town'—a place where people can access most of their daily needs within a 10-minute walk, cycle, or bus trip. 'The proposed Urban Area Plan will be more than a planning document—it will be a blueprint for a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable Sligo as our commercial and residential hub. As Cathaoirleach, I believe this is our opportunity to shape a town that reflects the values and ambitions of our people. From climate resilience to heritage protection, from housing to sustainable mobility, this plan will guide how we live, work, and grow together. I urge every resident to take part in this important conversation and help us build the Sligo of tomorrow.' Cathaoirleach Cllr. Donal Gilroy, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Sligo. Submissions may be made online at or by email or post (details in the Issues Paper). Submissions must be received by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, 22 August 2025. For further information and to read the full Issues Paper, visit
Winnipeg Free Press
4 days ago
- Politics
- Winnipeg Free Press
Ottawa advised to set up office to track UFOs
The truth is out there — and the Sky Canada Project say the federal government should create an office to get to the bottom of UFOs. Chief science adviser Mona Nemer said 37-page report titled 'Management of Public Reporting of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena in Canada,' has attracted 'more public anticipation than any project in the history of this office. 'Numerous individuals and organizations have stepped forward to offer their assistance,' Nemer said. ALEX BRANDON / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS FILES A video of a UAP is paused for display during a hearing of the House Intelligence, Counterterrorism, Counterintelligence, and Counterproliferation Subcommittee hearing on 'Unidentified Aerial Phenomena,' on Capitol Hill in the U.S. in May 2022. 'Rarely does anyone mistake a flock of geese flying in V formation for a fighter squadron flying at high altitudes, but sometimes what is being observed in the sky is not immediately clear and a person may wonder if what they are seeing is a natural phenomenon, a new type of aircraft or something else altogether.' The report by the Sky Canada Project, which is led by the chief science adviser's office, found in a survey it commissioned, that one in four respondents 'personally witnessed a UAP in their lifetime. However, only 10 per cent reported their sightings and 40 per cent of respondents would not know whom to contact for reporting.' One of the report's 14 recommendations is that a federal department or agency must manage unidentified aerial phenomena data from the public. 'This service would collect testimonies, investigate cases and post its analyses publicly,' the report says. 'It would proactively inform Canadians about UAPs.' The report says Transport Canada should encourage pilots, cabin crew and air traffic controllers to report sightings of UAPs 'without fear of stigmatization' as well as analyze the reports to give pilots explanations to 'reduce distractions during flights.' Nemer could not be reached for comment. Winnipegger Chris Rutkowski, an expert on UFOs who publishes the annual Canadian UFO Survey, said he was one of the consultants on the report and went to Ottawa to share his expertise and statistics with Sky Canada Project scientists. 'I'm relatively optimistic they will designate an office,' Rutkowski said. 'They did have such an office until 1995 in the National Research Council. 'They had a contingent of investigators and the RCMP and all of their detectives assisted. But it finished in 1995 when the NRC stepped from an interest in meteors to the CanadArm and Canadians in space. So for 30 years there hasn't been any organized collection of any cases whatsoever.' Rutkowski said that left just his volunteer-based organization and it continues to receive reports. He said Manitobans reported 30 UFOs last year while nationally 1,008 reports were made. 'There have been 25,000 cases since we've been doing the survey since 1989,' he said. Rutkowski said a federal office would be beneficial in other ways, and not just to counter disinformation. 'There is a need to keep track of cases,' he said. 'And, with our now challenging political state, there is a push for greater defence and security. One could argue this may fall under defence.' Sundays Kevin Rollason's Sunday newsletter honouring and remembering lives well-lived in Manitoba. Philip Ferguson, founding director of the University of Manitoba's Space Technology and Advanced Research Laboratory (STARlab) and an associate professor in the department of mechanical engineering, said setting up a federal office to track UAP's 'is a great idea.' 'We live in a time today when people are able to make their own UFOs,' he said. 'Drones are more ubiquitous today than they were even five years ago.' Ferguson, who is also president of the Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute, said it doesn't mean the office would only receive reports from people who believe they have seen aliens from another plant. 'UFO or UAP does not mean an alien,' he said. 'It means they have seen something that they don't know what it is. With where our technology is, I do think it is important to have a uniform location for where Canadians can report these things.' Kevin RollasonReporter Kevin Rollason is a general assignment reporter at the Free Press. He graduated from Western University with a Masters of Journalism in 1985 and worked at the Winnipeg Sun until 1988, when he joined the Free Press. He has served as the Free Press's city hall and law courts reporter and has won several awards, including a National Newspaper Award. Read more about Kevin. Every piece of reporting Kevin produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
