Islamabad, Kyrgyzstan has expressed a strong interest in leveraging the capabilities of Pakistani seaports, particularly those in Karachi and Gwadar, for improved access to Central Asian states and the Eurasian Economic Union. This development was highlighted during the 4th Session of the Kyrgyz-Pakistan Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade-Economic and Scientific-Technical Cooperation in Bishkek.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the session was attended by Baisalov Edil Zholdubaevich, Deputy Chairman of the Kyrgyzstan Cabinet of Ministers, and the Pakistani delegation led by Energy Minister Muhammad Ali. The Kyrgyz side’s interest in Pakistani ports underlines the strategic importance of these ports in enhancing regional trade connectivity.

Energy Minister Muhammad Ali expressed Pakistan’s readiness for active dialogue and practical steps to deepen bilateral cooperation. He emphasized the significance of collaboration in the energy sector, particularly highlighting the importance of the CASA-1000 project, and the mutual commitment to its speedy completion.

Furthermore, the Minister stressed the need for a comprehensive Plan of Action to overcome trade barriers, pointing to the crucial role of the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment. The ongoing discussions for a Transit Trade Agreement were also commended, with the Karakoram Highway’s year-round accessibility seen as an opportunity to facilitate transit trade and strengthen economic ties.

The meeting also discussed Pakistan’s interest in developing bilateral E-Commerce platforms, recognizing the Kyrgyz Republic’s emerging status as a logistics and e-commerce hub. In addition, cultural and people-to-people connections were highlighted, including the significant number of Pakistani students in Kyrgyzstan and the increasing tourism to the country, indicating a deep cultural affinity.

The delegates also focused on enhancing regional connectivity between Central Asia and South Asia, discussing the advancement of rail, road, and air links, and increasing people-to-people engagement. These efforts are aimed at fostering long-term stability, peace, and prosperity in the region.