Islamabad, Mar 24, 2025: The Senate Standing Committee on Planning, led by Senator Quratul Ain Marri, recently convened to discuss the progress and funding of the M-6 Motorway project. The National Highway Authority (NHA) chairman provided a detailed briefing on the project’s financial aspects and investment prospects.
In a significant development, Azerbaijan has expressed interest in investing $2 billion in Pakistan, potentially impacting key infrastructure projects.
The estimated cost for constructing the M-6 Motorway stands at $1.2 billion.
If the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) finances the M-6, the Azerbaijani investment could be directed toward the M-10 Motorway.
M-6 Motorway to be Developed in Five Phases
The M-6 Motorway is set to be constructed in five phases, with the Islamic Development Bank showing keen interest in funding the first two sections.
A fact-finding delegation from the bank visited Pakistan in February, and an appraisal mission is scheduled for April. The exact amount of financing will be determined following this assessment.
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Azerbaijan’s Investment Strategy
Azerbaijan’s $2 billion investment will likely be structured as a long-term deposit.
Moreover, the country may collaborate with the Islamic Development Bank to invest in the M-6 project, further strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
The final details of these investments are expected to be finalized in April.
Hybrid PC-1 and Public-Private Partnership Model
To facilitate the project, a hybrid PC-1 will be developed.
The M-6 Motorway will initially be offered to local firms under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
However, if this approach fails, the government is prepared to finance and complete the project independently.
This ambitious project marks a significant step toward modernizing Pakistan’s road infrastructure, enhancing trade connectivity, and attracting foreign investment.
With Azerbaijan’s financial backing and the Islamic Development Bank’s support, the M-6 and M-10 Motorways could soon become game-changers in the country’s transportation network.
