Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to enhance their bilateral relationship by elevating it to a strategic partnership. This decision aims to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, regional connectivity, security, and multilateral diplomacy, as outlined in a joint declaration issued during President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to Kyrgyzstan.
The declaration followed discussions between President Zardari and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov in Cholpon-Ata, where both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to expanding collaboration across various sectors such as energy, agriculture, mining, textiles, the halal industry, and pharmaceuticals.
In a significant development, they agreed to expedite progress on the CASA-1000 energy project, which seeks to enhance electricity connectivity between Central and South Asia. Pakistan also expressed readiness to facilitate Central Asian countries’ access to global markets through its seaports, highlighting its strategic role in regional trade.
Both nations emphasized boosting joint investments and strengthening economic ties by improving trade and regional connectivity. The joint declaration underscored the importance of the CASA-1000 initiative and Pakistan’s position as a gateway for Central Asian states seeking international market access.
President Zardari and President Japarov also pledged to intensify cooperation in key economic sectors, including agriculture, textiles, mining, halal products, and pharmaceuticals, which they identified as vital drivers of future economic growth.
On the security front, the leaders committed to collaborating against terrorism and extremism to foster regional peace and stability. They reaffirmed their partnership within international forums such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Notably, they expressed concern that unilateral economic and financial sanctions disrupt global food and energy security and impede the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
President Japarov acknowledged Pakistan’s significant contributions to peace efforts at the United Nations and its mediation role in the Middle East. He welcomed the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, aimed at promoting lasting peace in that region.
During the meeting, President Japarov extended an invitation to President Zardari to attend the World Nomad Games scheduled in Kyrgyzstan in August 2026. President Zardari accepted the invitation and confirmed Pakistan’s participation with a national delegation and sports teams.
In response, the Pakistani president invited his Kyrgyz counterpart to visit Pakistan, an offer that President Japarov accepted. Furthermore, President Zardari welcomed the unanimous adoption by the United Nations General Assembly of Kyrgyzstan’s resolution titled “Peaceful Settlement of Border Disputes.”
