Islamabad: Pakistan and Kazakhstan have signed a joint declaration to establish a strategic partnership between the two nations. The document was signed by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif following discussions held in Islamabad.
According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the signing of the joint declaration as a significant moment in the history of the two countries, aimed at achieving shared goals of peace, progress, and prosperity. The Prime Minister highlighted that the current trade volume between the two countries stands at $250 million and stressed the need for collective efforts to increase this to $1 billion within the next year. He encouraged both nations' business communities to invest in joint ventures to achieve this target.
The Prime Minister also announced the agreement on the Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan transport corridor to boost regional connectivity. Pakistan has offered Kazakhstan full access to its transit infrastructure and seaport facilities. Collaboration in the energy sector was also emphasized as a mutual benefit for both countries.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recognized Kazakhstan as a strategic and valued partner in Central Asia and committed to the swift implementation of the 37 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed to strengthen trade, economic, and cultural relations.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in his remarks, stated that Pakistan is a reliable and important partner in South Asia. He praised Pakistan's rich history, vibrant culture, and international standing. He noted that the peoples of both nations are united by historical ties from the Silk Road era and share common values and aspirations for the future.
The Kazakh President called the signing of the joint declaration historic and expressed optimism about the opportunities it presents for bilateral and multilateral engagement. He commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as a wise and visionary leader and acknowledged Pakistan's growing regional and global influence.
President Tokayev recognized Pakistan's economic potential, industrial capacity, and transit capabilities. He highlighted Pakistan's dynamic defense industry and the country's achievements across various sectors. The two countries have agreed to expand cooperation in the defense industry, with recent developments in security and law enforcement collaboration.
The leaders also discussed expanding their trade volume to $1 billion, with a focus on transport and logistics projects. They explored the capabilities of Karachi and Gwadar Ports and considered resuming direct air connections. Discussions also included energy sector projects and the TAPI gas pipeline prospects.
The 37 MoUs and agreements signed cover numerous fields, including petroleum, mining, maritime affairs, customs, railways, agriculture, Artificial Intelligence, health, education, information exchange, climate change, culture, crime prevention, and sports. A treaty on extradition and a transit trade agreement were also signed.