ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Turkmenistan have pledged to enhance their bilateral cooperation in defense, economic, and political spheres following the third round of their bilateral political consultations held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar led the Pakistani delegation, while Turkmenistan’s side was represented by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov. The meeting underscored both nations’ commitment to expanding and deepening their collaboration in key areas such as trade, investment, energy, connectivity, and information technology.
The discussions centered on several major projects, including the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline and the TAP Electricity Transmission Line. The leaders emphasized the importance of these initiatives for strengthening bilateral economic ties. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to advancing trade and economic relations, calling for the early finalization of the Transit Trade Agreement and a more liberal visa regime to facilitate business exchanges.
Both countries agreed to bolster their parliamentary engagement and cultural exchanges, including educational scholarships and diplomatic training. They also committed to working closely in multilateral forums, such as the United Nations and the Economic Cooperation Organisation, to address regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the situation in Afghanistan and Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
During a joint media briefing, Dar expressed eagerness for the forthcoming visit of Turkmenistan’s National Leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to Pakistan, which he believes will further cement the bilateral relationship. He highlighted Pakistan’s investment climate and the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in attracting foreign investors.
Meredov emphasized that the successful implementation of the TAPI pipeline, power transmission line, and fiber optic communications would be pivotal for deepening Turkmen-Pakistani economic cooperation. He affirmed that these large-scale projects are central to their trade and economic partnership, underscoring a shared commitment to mutually beneficial collaboration.
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