Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan Reaffirm Commitment to Strengthen Trade and Bilateral Cooperation
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral relations, with a renewed focus on increasing trade, investment, connectivity, and cooperation across multiple sectors.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Asif Ali Zardari and Sadyr Japarov during President Zardari’s four-day official visit to Kyrgyzstan.
Leaders Emphasize Stronger Economic Partnership
According to a joint statement, both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress in bilateral relations and agreed to further strengthen cooperation through regular political dialogue and high-level exchanges.
They also stressed the importance of implementing agreements reached during previous bilateral meetings and enhancing collaboration between government institutions, foreign ministries, and parliamentary bodies.
Focus on Trade and Investment
The two countries agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, and business development by encouraging stronger engagement between chambers of commerce, investment promotion agencies, financial institutions, and the private sector.
Relevant ministries and government agencies were directed to accelerate efforts aimed at expanding commercial ties and facilitating joint investment opportunities.
Cooperation Across Multiple Sectors
Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan identified several sectors with strong potential for future collaboration, including:
- Energy and the CASA-1000 project
- Agriculture and food processing
- Mining and natural resources
- Textiles and light industries
- Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
- Information technology and the digital economy
- Tourism and cultural exchanges
- Banking and financial services
- Medical education and professional cooperation
The two sides also discussed promoting joint ventures and improving market access through closer regulatory cooperation.
Improving Regional Connectivity
Both leaders highlighted the importance of strengthening transport, logistics, and transit links between Central Asia and South Asia.
They reaffirmed support for better utilization of Pakistan’s seaports to facilitate regional trade, while also exploring opportunities to use Kyrgyzstan’s strategic location to improve access to Central Asian and Eurasian markets.
Additional measures to increase cargo movement and regional connectivity were also discussed.
Security and Regional Cooperation
Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan agreed to continue cooperation in addressing shared security challenges, including terrorism, extremism, organized crime, cybercrime, irregular migration, and drug trafficking.
The two countries also pledged to maintain close coordination at international forums, including the United Nations, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and Economic Cooperation Organization.
President Zardari Calls for Closer Regional Partnership
During delegation-level talks, President Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan share strong historical, cultural, and religious ties and should work together to unlock greater economic opportunities.
He emphasized the importance of improving regional connectivity and expanding cooperation in trade, research, industry, and investment for the mutual benefit of both nations.
President Zardari also congratulated Kyrgyzstan on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working closely with the country on regional and international issues.
