Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to expand bilateral trade and strengthen economic cooperation as President Asif Ali Zardari hosted Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov at the Presidential Palace on Thursday.

The leaders also expressed satisfaction with ongoing connectivity projects and emphasized deeper people-to-people ties.

President Asif Ali Zardari met Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov after the latter arrived in Pakistan on a landmark visit—the first by a Kyrgyz president in 20 years. The meeting began with a brief one-on-one conversation before formal delegation-level talks.

President Zardari said President Zhaparov’s visit would mark a “new turn” in Pakistan-Kyrgyz relations, highlighting the two countries’ historical, religious, cultural and trade ties.

Trade expansion

Both leaders agreed that existing bilateral trade levels do not reflect the real economic potential of Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan. President Zardari welcomed the Kyrgyz business delegation currently visiting Pakistan and noted that cooperation under CASA-1000 is progressing, with Kyrgyzstan’s share completed and Pakistan’s portion in the final stages.

The presidents also expressed satisfaction with the operational road corridor under the Karakoram Transit Agreement, calling it a key milestone in boosting regional connectivity.

Focus on connectivity, energy

President Zardari stressed that increasing direct flights between the two countries is essential for expanding trade, tourism and cultural exchange. He thanked Kyrgyzstan for hosting thousands of Pakistani students and workers.

Pakistan has added Kyrgyzstan to its business visa list and visa-on-arrival category, demonstrating Islamabad’s intent to deepen ties across trade, energy, connectivity, education and technology.

The Kyrgyz President appreciated Pakistan’s support at the UN Security Council session and extended a formal invitation to President Zardari to visit Kyrgyzstan.

The two presidents also discussed regional and global developments of mutual interest. The meeting was attended by ministers, senators and senior officials from both countries.

A dinner was held in honour of President Zhaparov at the Presidential Palace, where President Zardari congratulated him on his birthday and an orchestra performed “Happy Birthday.”