DPM Dar, Kyrgyz Minister reaffirm commitment to strengthen bilateral ties

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday held a meeting with Kyrgyz Minister of Foreign Affairs Zheenbek Kulubaev, who is accompanying the Kyrgyz President on his State visit to Pakistan.

During the meeting, the two sides reiterated their commitment to further strengthen and diversify bilateral cooperation in all areas of shared interest.

They also reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with a particular focus on trade, energy, connectivity, education, and ppl-to-ppl contacts, as well as enhanced cooperation at multilateral forums.

The two leaders also exchanged views on recent regional and international developments of mutual interest. They also reviewed various bilateral instruments which will be signed during the visit.

The two sides agreed to hold regular meetings of Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Bilateral Political Consultations and Bilateral Inter-governmental Commission to unlock the full potential of bilateral relationship.

Both leaders agreed to enhance the bilateral economic cooperation and noted with satisfaction convening of business forum on the sidelines of the visit.

The two leaders also hoped that early finalization of the Transit Trade Agreement would help achieving the bilateral trade target of US$ 100 million.

Both sides reiterated their shared vision of timely and effective implementation of the CASA-1000 project. They also highlighted the importance of secure, sustainable and diversified connectivity routes between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan for further enhancement of bilateral as well as regional trade.

The deputy PM also expressed appreciation for the government and people of the Kyrgyz Republic for being gracious hosts to Pakistani students and workers and agreed to take measures to institutionalize and enhance cooperation in people-to-people sphere.

Ishaq Dar underscored the threats to peace and security in South Asia and emphasized the importance of restraint and responsible conduct by the regional countries.

He highlighted that the peaceful settlement of Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, was imperative for lasting peace in South Asia.

The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to address the threat of terrorism and prevent the use of Afghan soil against Pakistan and any other country.

He underscored Pakistan’s desire to see a stable and regionally connected Afghanistan, at peace with itself and all its neighbours.

The two leaders agreed to continue to work closely at all forums, including at the UN, SCO, OIC and ECO for peace and security as well as progress and prosperity of the region.