Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a meeting with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Zheenbek Kulubaev at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the two sides conducted a detailed review of Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan bilateral relations ahead of the visit of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov to Pakistan.
The meeting covered a wide spectrum of cooperation, including political, economic, energy, connectivity, cultural and educational ties.
Both leaders also examined the set of agreements and MoUs expected to be signed during the presidential visit.
Mr. Dar and Mr. Kulubaev agreed to convene regular sessions of the Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Bilateral Political Consultations and the Inter-governmental Commission to accelerate progress and unlock the full potential of the bilateral partnership.
They welcomed the holding of the Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Business Forum and reaffirmed their determination to enhance economic cooperation.
The two sides expressed optimism that the early conclusion of the Transit Trade Agreement would help achieve the bilateral trade target of US$100 million.
Reiterating their shared commitment to the timely implementation of the CASA-1000 energy project, the ministers emphasized the need for secure, reliable and diversified connectivity routes to boost bilateral as well as regional trade.
The Deputy Prime Minister appreciated the Kyrgyz government for hosting Pakistani students and workers, and noted the importance of institutionalizing cooperation in the people-to-people domain.
Highlighting regional security challenges, Mr. Dar underscored the importance of restraint and responsible behaviour by all countries in South Asia.
He reiterated that the peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions, remained essential for lasting peace in the region.
He further stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to combat terrorism and prevent the use of Afghan territory against Pakistan and other states.
Both leaders agreed to continue close coordination at multilateral forums, including the UN, SCO, OIC and ECO, to advance regional peace, security and prosperity.
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