Ashgabat (TDI): Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani and Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov on Monday discussed avenues for enhancing bilateral ties and advancing shared regional goals.
During the meeting, Gilani thanked his hosts over warm hospitality and reiterated Pakistan’s strong support for Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality.
He stressed the significance of enhancing political, trade, and economic engagement between the two countries.
Underlining the critical need to increase bilateral trade, he advocated for expanded cooperation in major sectors and highlighted the potential of regional connectivity in promoting mutual prosperity.
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The Senate Chairman particularly encouraged Turkmenistan to utilize the strategic Gwadar and Karachi seaports more extensively to boost trade and connectivity.
The two sides comprehensively discussed major regional projects, including the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline, the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (TAP) power transmission line, and the regional fiber optic initiative.
Chairman Gilani reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to these initiatives, which have special place in regional energy security and digital connectivity.
Foreign Minister Meredov, while acknowledging Islamabad’s continued support, suggested the implementation of practical steps to advance strategic objectives.
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These included increasing high-level exchanges, strengthening economic collaboration, and exploring the import of Pakistani marble for the construction sector of Turkmenistan.
Both sides expressed hope that current cooperation and strategic dialogue would lead to enhanced, mutually beneficial relations between Pakistan and Turkmenistan.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
