ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (Alliance News): Pakistan and Turkmenistan agreed on Tuesday to enhance their cooperation in political, economic, and defense areas while committing to boost bilateral trade to match its full potential.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Turkmenistan’s Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov for a one-on-one meeting and the third round of Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC).
Both ministers addressed the media, highlighting their comprehensive review of bilateral relations and discussions on closer economic ties, focusing on investment in energy, connectivity, and IT sectors.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar announced plans to enhance leadership exchanges, looking forward to Turkmenistan’s national leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow’s visit. He emphasized Pakistan’s favorable investment climate and invited Turkmen companies to explore opportunities at Gwadar and Karachi seaports.
The two sides reviewed progress on the TAPI gas pipeline and power transmission line, aiming to boost regional cooperation. They also agreed to diversify trade, accelerate the transit trade agreement, and promote parliamentary exchanges, educational scholarships, and people-to-people contacts.
Dar informed Meredov about the human rights situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that peace in South Asia depends on resolving the Kashmir dispute per UN resolutions and the Kashmiri people’s aspirations.
Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov underscored the importance of political and diplomatic ties, trade, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges. He praised Pakistan’s support for Turkmenistan’s neutrality and noted the countries’ mutual backing within international organizations, especially the UN.
Both ministers discussed implementing joint projects like the TAPI gas pipeline, power transmission, and fiber optic communication along the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan route. They agreed to develop modern infrastructure along East-West and North-South corridors and maintain active dialogue on creating international transport routes to maximize transit potential.
