STAFF REPORT
ISLAMABAD: Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan Raja Parvez Ashraf stated that Pakistan aimed to build sustainable and result-oriented engagement with Central Asian Republics through its “Vision Central Asia” Policy.
He said that Pakistan was keenly working on furthering cooperation with all Central Asian states, particularly Kazakhstan, on all matters of mutual interest.
He made these remarks in a meeting with Chairman Yerlan Koshanov, Mazhilis of Parliament, led Kazakhstan’s Parliamentary delegation, today at the Parliament House, Islamabad. National Assembly Deputy Speaker Zahid Akram Durrani and Federal Minister Shazia Atta Marri were also in attendance.
Pakistan Speaker terms Gwadar, Karachi conduit for Central Asian states
Parvez Ashraf underscored that short and easy access to the sea, to landlocked Central Asian states through the xKarachi and Gwadar ports was a key component of that vision.
He also emphasized the fact that Pakistan was a key conduit to connect Central Asia with the rest of the world efficiently and cost-effectively.
Parvez Ashraf also expressed deep gratitude to Yerlan who visited Pakistan at his invitation. He highlighted that this visit would prove pivotal in fastening the pace of cooperation, particularly in the parliamentary arena.
Kazakhstan Speaker says aware of trade conduit offered by Pakistan
Yerlan while thanking the Speaker expressed condolences over the devastations caused in the country due to recent floods. He underscored that both countries share historic, religious and cultural ties which were further strengthened through 30 years of diplomatic and parliamentary engagements.
Yerlan highlighted that his country was aware of the trade conduit provided by Pakistan and he was hopeful that his visit and the forthcoming visit of the President of his country to Pakistan would be significant in boosting trade and investment between the two sides.
He also extended an invitation to Speaker National Assembly for an official visit to Kazakhstan as that would further enhance ties between both countries.
Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) Shazia Atta Marri underscored enhancing cooperation in fields of tourism, trade, relaxing visa policies, youth exchanges, and furthering women’s participation in decision-making processes.
Yerlan Koshanov fully agreed with the matters discussed during the meeting and assured them to play his part in resolving all impending issues to promote peace and prosperity in both countries.
Kazakhstan Speaker prays for Muslim Ummah
Earlier, Yerlan Koshanov planted a sampling of Magnolia Grand flora on the lawn of Parliament in presence of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker & parliamentarians from both sides. Afterward, they also prayed for progress and prosperity of both sides, and the Muslim Ummah.
Besides, the visiting delegation also visited the parliament house and was briefed about its history, functions, and voting mechanisms.
