Coordination on CASA-1000 and QTTA also discussed
Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan officials discussed a wide range of subjects, including bilateral relations, regional peace and security, and cooperation at a recent meeting.
Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Kyrgyz Republic Talatbek Masadykov met with Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood on October 22.
Expressing satisfaction on the status of existing ties, the Foreign Secretary underlined the importance of enhanced bilateral exchanges, trade and economic ties, and regular interactions of institutional mechanisms.
He reiterated Pakistan’s support for ongoing projects such as CASA-1000 power transmission line and stressed stepped-up coordination for implementation of the Pakistan-China-Kyrgyzstan-Afghanistan Quadrilateral Agreement on Trade in Transit Agreement (QTTA).
The two sides reaffirmed their cooperation at the regional and international fora, including at the UN, OIC, SCO and ECO on all matters of mutual interest.
On the situation of peace and security, the Foreign Secretary highlighted the importance of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan for Pakistan and the region.
Sohail Mahmood emphasized the need for the international community to pursue a pragmatic approach and take practical steps in order to seize the opportunity for sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan.
He also highlighted the urgent need for relief efforts and humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, the release of Afghanistan’s frozen financial assets, and steps for economic stability. He said that sustainable peace in Afghanistan was essential for the neighboring countries, to preclude security challenges and refugee outflow and to reap the benefits of regional connectivity through the implementation of CASA-1000 and Trans-Afghan Railway projects.
The Kyrgyz Deputy Chairman shared Kyrgyzstan’s perspective on the evolving situation and appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in support of peace and development in Afghanistan. He also reaffirmed Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to further enhance bilateral cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.
Kyrgyz Deputy Chairman of the Security Council is on a three-day visit to Pakistan from 21-24 October 2021.