ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan signed multiple agreements in Islamabad on Thursday. The signing followed the first official visit of President Sadyr Zhaparov to Pakistan in two decades. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received the Kyrgyz leader at the Prime Minister’s House. Officials presented a Guard of Honour to President Zhaparov during the welcoming ceremony.
Both leaders exchanged greetings before introducing their respective delegations. President Zhaparov planted a sapling at the Prime Minister’s House. He also offered prayers to symbolise the start of a renewed partnership.
Broad Set of MoUs Signed to Deepen Cooperation
The two countries exchanged extensive MoUs to strengthen bilateral cooperation. The agreements covered diplomacy, trade, mining, tourism, energy and agriculture. An MoU linked Pakistan’s Foreign Services Academy with Kyrgyzstan’s Diplomatic Academy. Another MoU connected the commerce ministries of both countries.
Additional MoUs focused on mining cooperation and geosciences. Tourism authorities from both states agreed to develop coordinated initiatives. Energy officials signed a separate MoU on sectoral collaboration. Another MoU allowed greater use of Pakistani ports for regional access. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in agriculture. Customs authorities also signed an MoU on electronic data interchange.
The two countries additionally signed an agreement on the exchange of convicted prisoners. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar exchanged documents with the Kyrgyz foreign minister.
Leaders Commit to Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Prime Minister Sharif and President Zhaparov jointly signed a declaration. The document reaffirmed their commitment to expanding relations in all sectors. Sharif noted that ties dated back to 1992 and had strengthened over time. He said the visit would guide both countries toward deeper cooperation.
Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s interest in expanding collaboration with Kyrgyzstan. He said discussions covered regional security, global challenges and mutual priorities.
Zhaparov Praises Pakistan and Calls for Stronger Economic Links
President Zhaparov thanked Sharif for the warm reception. He described Pakistan as a vital partner in South Asia. He emphasised the shared views of both countries on international issues. He stressed their joint commitment to combating terrorism.
Zhaparov urged strengthened cooperation in communications, transport and trade. He highlighted the importance of holding a joint business forum. He underscored the significance of the CASA-1000 project for regional energy needs. He also stressed the value of cooperation in education, science and technology.
He noted that 12,000 Pakistani students study in Kyrgyzstan. He invited Prime Minister Sharif to visit the country.
Agreements Expected to Strengthen Future Collaboration
Both sides expressed confidence in the impact of the signed agreements. They expected progress in energy, mining, ports, agriculture and education. They anticipated stronger cooperation in commerce, tourism and technology. The leaders reaffirmed their resolve to explore untapped opportunities. They pledged to strengthen economic, diplomatic and cultural ties.
