Cholpon-ata: Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have reaffirmed their aspiration to establish a strategic partnership. The reaffirmation occurred during a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan.
According to Radio Pakistan, the joint statement issued after their talks highlighted the significance of enhancing trade, economic, and investment cooperation. The Heads of State expressed their readiness to support the development of direct contacts between the business communities of both nations, including chambers of commerce and industry, investment promotion agencies, and banking and financial institutions. They also pledged to encourage joint projects and establish joint ventures.
The leaders recognized the potential for expanded cooperation in the energy sector, specifically through the effective implementation of the CASA-1000 Project. They emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening transport connectivity between Central and South Asia and reiterated the necessity of implementing agreements in transport, logistics, and transit.
President Zardari and President Zhaparov agreed to continue collaboration on the efficient use of Pakistan's seaports, enhance multimodal transport, and promote international transport corridors connecting Central and South Asia. The discussions also focused on utilizing Kyrgyzstan's transit and logistics potential to access Central Asian and Eurasian Economic Union markets.
The two Presidents underscored the need for measures to increase cargo transportation volumes and create favorable conditions for sustainable transport and logistics routes. Additionally, they expressed mutual interest in advancing cooperation in education, science, culture, tourism, and public health.
The leaders condemned regional and international terrorist attacks and emphasized the vital role of peace and stability for progress. They pledged cooperation at forums like the UN, SCO, and OIC to combat terrorism comprehensively.
Kyrgyzstan lauded Pakistan's mediation efforts for peace in the Middle East, especially the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Both sides hoped the MoU would foster lasting peace and stability in the region.
The Presidents advocated for peaceful resolution of disputes, adherence to UN Charter principles, and avoidance of unilateral actions to realize the potential of Central and South Asian cooperation.
During the delegation-level talks, President Zardari highlighted the deep-rooted brotherly relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan, rooted in shared faith, history, and culture. He emphasized strengthening cooperation across various fields and enhancing air connectivity by increasing flights between the two countries.
President Zardari's visit underscored the enduring friendship between the nations. He congratulated Kyrgyzstan on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2027-2028.
The meeting featured an official welcoming ceremony at the Rukh Ordo Cultural Centre and concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Health and Pakistan's Drug Regulatory Authority. An official reception hosted by the Kyrgyz President honored President Zardari and his high-level delegation.