ISLAMABAD: A landmark ceremony took place at the Prime Minister’s House, where Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan exchanged multiple memoranda of understanding (MoUs) across various sectors. The event was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov.
During the ceremony, Islamabad and Bishkek were officially declared twin cities. In addition, both countries signed agreements on cooperation in mining, geosciences, tourism, energy, culture, youth affairs, and the exchange of sentenced prisoners.
The MoUs were exchanged between the respective foreign ministries, the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, and Kyrgyz ministries overseeing culture, information, sports, and youth affairs.
Addressing the ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed President Japarov, noting that this is the first visit by a Kyrgyz president in over two decades.
He highlighted that since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan relations have steadily strengthened, and this visit provides an opportunity to elevate cooperation across multiple sectors.
The Prime Minister stated that 15 MoUs and agreements signed during the visit represent significant progress, particularly in trade, energy, and economic collaboration.
He emphasized that the Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Business Forum will open new avenues for bilateral trade, aiming to increase trade volume from $15 million to $200 million within two years.
President Japarov, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality, calling Pakistan a reliable partner.
He highlighted that the visit involved in-depth discussions on bilateral cooperation, future projects, trade, education, science, technology, and energy needs, including the CASA-1000 project. He also noted that around 12,000 Pakistani students are currently studying in Kyrgyzstan.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing people-to-people contacts, cultural exchanges, and collaboration in combating terrorism.
President Japarov concluded by inviting Prime Minister Sharif to visit Kyrgyzstan, further strengthening ties between the two countries.
