The trade turnover between Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan remains low, reaching only about $20mn in 2023. During a working visit to Islamabad, Akylbek Zhaparov, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, met with Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, to discuss strategies for enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
In his opening remarks, Zhaparov emphasized the potential for increasing trade between the two countries, stating,
"I propose that through joint efforts we bring it to at least $100mn next year, and in the medium term—to $500mn."
Zhaparov highlighted the recent signing of a quadripartite agreement on transit cargo transportation involving Pakistan, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, which provides Kyrgyzstan with access to maritime routes through Pakistan.
He noted the need to maximize the utilization of the Karakoram Highway, a critical transport corridor, stating, "For various reasons, this unique transport corridor is still in the initial phase of its operation, and we need to jointly bring this important highway to its maximum capacity as soon as possible."
Additionally, Zhaparov discussed improvements in the investment climate in Kyrgyzstan and proposed the establishment of a Kyrgyz-Pakistani business council aimed at strengthening cooperation between entrepreneurs from both nations. He suggested hosting the inaugural meeting of this council in Kyrgyzstan next year.
In response, Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude to Kyrgyzstan for its support in Pakistan's bid for non-permanent membership on the UN Security Council for 2025-2026. He reiterated Pakistan's interest in fostering mutually beneficial cooperation.
The leaders also discussed cultural and humanitarian exchanges, particularly in the field of education.
"I am confident that thanks to our joint efforts, Kyrgyz-Pakistani cooperation will reach new heights in the near future," concluded Zhaparov, extending an invitation for Sharif to visit Kyrgyzstan at his convenience.
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