In a significant diplomatic engagement, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq held a pivotal meeting with the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Zhaparov, during the latter's official visit to Pakistan. The high-level discussion, also attended by Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, centered on fortifying the multifaceted relationship between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral and Parliamentary Bonds
Speaker Ayaz Sadiq warmly welcomed President Zhaparov, describing Kyrgyzstan as a "strategically important country" for Pakistan. He emphasized that the visit marked a positive milestone in deepening the longstanding friendship shared by both countries. A key focus of the dialogue was on enhancing collaboration across several sectors, including trade, investment, education, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
Sadiq underscored the critical role of parliamentary diplomacy and people-to-people contacts in fostering greater mutual understanding and solidifying the foundation of bilateral cooperation. He called for stronger engagement between the lawmakers of Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan to drive this vision forward.
Regional Security and Stability: A Core Concern
The conversation also addressed crucial regional and global issues. Speaker Sadiq linked sustainable economic growth and trade to regional security, expressing serious concern over the continued use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan. He stated that instability in Afghanistan poses a direct threat to regional trade routes and connectivity projects.
"Lasting peace is indispensable for development and prosperity across the region," Sadiq asserted. Reflecting on past regional tensions, he highlighted Pakistan's firm response to aggression, noting the successful downing of seven Indian aircraft during previous hostilities. Furthermore, Speaker Sadiq reiterated the demand for the full NFC share for the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
A Shared Commitment for Future Collaboration
President Sadyr Zhaparov reciprocated the sentiments, thanking Pakistan's leadership and people for their warm hospitality. He reaffirmed Kyrgyzstan's steadfast commitment to its historic friendship with Pakistan and agreed on the importance of boosting parliamentary engagement to achieve deeper harmony and cooperation.
Both leaders concluded the meeting by reaffirming their joint commitment to expanding practical collaboration in all discussed sectors. They also pledged to work together in promoting peace, stability, and development on regional and international platforms, setting a renewed course for the bilateral relationship.
