Islamabad: In a significant move towards enhancing bilateral relations, Pakistan and Turkmenistan have agreed on several initiatives aimed at boosting trade and investment. The decisions were made during the third round of Pakistan-Turkmenistan’s Bilateral Political Consultations held in Islamabad.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the discussions were co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Ishaq Dar, and his Turkmen counterpart, Rasit Meredow. The ministers outlined a plan to diversify trade, finalize a transit trade agreement promptly, and implement a liberal visa policy to enhance business contacts between the two nations.
During a joint press stake-out, Foreign Minister Dar detailed the outcomes of the meeting, emphasizing the commitment to intensify efforts in expanding bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and defense sectors. Both countries are focused on developing economic engagement in areas such as trade and investment, energy, connectivity, and information technology.
Dar also invited Turkmenistan’s companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan, highlighting the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council in aiding foreign investors. He stressed the strategic advantage of Pakistan’s seaports, including Gwadar and Karachi, which he said provide lucrative opportunities for business connectivity with the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.
The ministers also reviewed the progress of key infrastructure projects like the TAPI gas pipeline and electricity transmission lines, noting these endeavors as crucial for regional prosperity.
Further, Dar mentioned the bilateral decision to promote parliamentary and cultural exchanges, educational scholarships, and people-to-people contacts. He also briefed the Turkmen Foreign Minister on the human rights situation in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir, advocating for its peaceful resolution as essential for South Asia’s stability.
On his part, Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Meredow reaffirmed the priority his country places on relations with Pakistan, expressing a strong commitment to advancing joint projects that bolster the partnership and benefit both nations.
In conclusion, both sides agreed to maintain active dialogue on creating international transport routes to maximize the transit potential of their respective countries, demonstrating a robust agenda for future collaboration.