ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered seaports and capital markets to Kyrgyzstan during his meeting with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov. PM Shehbaz said Pakistan is a gateway to the Indian Ocean and it provides Kyrgyzstan access to regional and global markets through its seaports.
Shehbaz Sharif stated this today while addressing a joint press conference along with the Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov in Islamabad.
Earlier, Pakistani leaders warmly welcomed Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Nurgozhoevich Zhaparov, who arrived in Islamabad on Wednesday for a two-day state visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. President Asif Ali Zardari, PM Shehbaz, and senior cabinet members welcomed him at the airport. A 21-gun salute honoured the visiting president, while children in traditional attire presented him with flowers.
First Visit in Two Decades
This visit marks the first trip by a Kyrgyz president to Pakistan in twenty years. The last presidential visit occurred in January 2005. President Zhaparov is leading a high-level delegation that includes senior ministers, top government officials, and prominent business figures.
Expanded Diplomatic Engagements Planned
Earlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that President Zhaparov is undertaking his maiden state visit to Pakistan from December 3 to 4. The schedule includes meetings with Pakistan’s top leadership. The ministry stated that the Kyrgyz president will hold a one-on-one meeting with the prime minister, followed by delegation-level talks. He will also address the Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Business Forum.
Focus on Deepening Bilateral Cooperation
Talks will cover bilateral relations and explore new avenues for enhanced cooperation. Both sides plan to discuss trade, energy, defence, education, and regional connectivity. They will also review opportunities to expand people-to-people exchanges. The visit aims to strengthen ties and create fresh momentum in the partnership between the two countries.
Boost to Regional Diplomacy
Moreover, the visit is expected to reinforce regional cooperation efforts. Officials from both nations view the engagement as an opportunity to advance shared goals and improve economic collaboration. The presence of business leaders in the Kyrgyz delegation signals interest in expanding commercial links.
