Islamabad, The 4th Session of the Kyrgyz-Pakistan Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC) on Trade-Economic and Scientific-Technical Cooperation, held on November 10, 2023, in Bishkek, marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan. The Pakistani delegation, led by Mr. Muhammad Ali, Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division), and including senior officials from various ministries, met with their Kyrgyz counterparts to discuss various cooperative initiatives.
According to Press Information Department, the session was co-chaired by Mr. Muhammad Ali and His Excellency Mr. Baisalov Edil Zholdubaevich, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic. The Deputy Chairman emphasized the Kyrgyz Republic’s interest in utilizing Pakistani seaports, Karachi and Gwadar, to gain access to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Central Asian countries.
The session highlighted growing collaborations in various fields, including culture, humanitarian efforts, and joint training centers in medicine, distance learning, law, and finance. The Minister for Energy (Power Division) underscored the historical and cultural bonds between the two nations, affirming Pakistan’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation and dialogue.
A major focus of the session was the energy sector, particularly the CASA-1000 regional project, which both sides are committed to completing. The Minister noted a significant trade increase between the countries and stressed the need for a Plan of Action to address trade barriers. He also highlighted the ongoing talks for the Transit Trade Agreement and Pakistan’s interest in an E-Commerce platform collaboration, recognizing the Kyrgyz Republic’s role as a logistics and e-commerce hub.
The presence of over 15,000 Pakistani students in the Kyrgyz Republic and the growing tourism exchange further illustrate the deep cultural and people-to-people connections between the two countries. The Minister also advocated for cooperation in agriculture, focusing on research, value addition, food processing, and joint ventures.
The meeting was fruitful in discussing ways to enhance regional connectivity, including the development of rail, road, and air links, and increased people-to-people engagement. These initiatives aim to promote stability, peace, and prosperity in the region.