New Delhi, August 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney has advocated the reopening of the historic land trade route connecting North India, particularly Punjab, with Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, saying improved connectivity could open new economic opportunities for the region.
Dr. Sahney made the remarks during an industry roundtable with Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade H.E. Mr. Laziz Kudratov. He expressed hope that regional hostilities would reduce soon, paving the way for the reopening of the Attari-Wagah border for trade and connectivity.
Referring to the historical significance of Central Asian cities, Dr. Sahney said Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara have shared deep historical, social and cultural ties with India. He said there was significant scope for strengthening economic cooperation between India and Uzbekistan by combining the strengths of both countries.
He highlighted Uzbekistan’s capabilities in sectors such as cotton, horticulture and viticulture, while pointing out opportunities for India in pharmaceuticals, healthcare and other industries. He also noted that Uzbekistan’s reserves of critical minerals, including gold, copper and uranium, could contribute to future economic cooperation.
Dr. Sahney said alternative connectivity routes through Afghanistan and the Chabahar port could transform the economic landscape of the region and create new opportunities for businesses in North India.
He said Punjab and Haryana could particularly benefit from enhanced trade links, with sectors such as Basmati rice, processed food, textiles, bicycles, agriculture, engineering goods and machinery having strong export potential.
Calling for greater regional economic integration, Dr. Sahney emphasised that improved land connectivity and trade corridors could help unlock the potential of businesses and industries across the region.
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