ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had a bilateral meeting with his Kyrgyz counterpart Ruslan Kazakbaev on the sidelines of Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey.
Foreign Minister Qureshi spoke highly of the historical relations between the two countries and their deep cultural linkages. The two sides reviewed bilateral ties in diverse areas including political, economic, commercial, defence and security.
They also discussed issues relating to the welfare of Pakistani students and the expatriate community. Both sides expressed satisfaction at their ongoing collaboration at various regional and international forums.
The foreign minister elaborated Pakistan’s efforts for enhanced engagement with Central Asian states to build a result-oriented, sustainable and long-term partnership through its “Vision Central Asia” policy.
He also highlighted the aspect of regional connectivity and integration as its important components and underlined shortest access to the sea for Central Asian states through Gwadar and Karachi ports.
The two foreign ministers agreed to remain in close contact to further strengthen joint efforts for enhanced cooperation in all spheres of common interest.
Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has a separate meeting with his Uzbekistan counterpart Abdulaziz Kamilov and agreed to promote economic partnership and undertake joint efforts for peace in the region.
Qureshi said promotion of economic cooperation is the top priority of the government of Pakistan. He said Pakistan wants to enhance interactions with the Central Asian States, including Uzbekistan.
Both the foreign ministers also exchanged views on the Afghan Peace Process. Qureshi said peace in Afghanistan is imperative not only for Afghanistan, but for the development and progress of the entire region.
