ISLAMABAD (WNAM Report) – The Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan, Avazbek Atakhanov, has underscored the pivotal roles of Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan in fostering regional economic and trade integration, emphasizing their geo-strategic importance in connecting markets across Asia and beyond.
During his recent visit to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) Head Office, Ambassador Atakhanov highlighted that the two countries not only serve as regional economic bridges but also hold immense potential for extra-regional connectivity, particularly in linking with major global markets.
Calling Pakistan’s geo-strategic location a major advantage, the envoy noted that Kyrgyzstan’s liberal economy is steadily becoming a hub for global trade. He urged Pakistani investors to explore opportunities in Kyrgyzstan’s growing market, citing its strong ties with regional powers, including China, and trade links worth $23 billion.
“Kyrgyzstan can serve as Pakistan’s gateway to the Euro-Asian Economic Zone,” he stated, adding that collaboration in renewable energy, mining, gold, tourism, and agriculture is boosting Kyrgyzstan’s GDP, which has seen a 30% increase in recent years. The Ambassador also pointed out that Kyrgyzstan’s per capita income is on the rise, poverty is decreasing, and the overall standard of living is improving.
Ambassador Atakhanov announced the forthcoming visit of Kyrgyzstan’s Deputy Prime Minister to Pakistan in mid-May, aimed at enhancing bilateral economic cooperation. He reaffirmed Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to democratic values and highlighted the vital role of civil society in national development.
Discussing energy collaboration, the Ambassador stressed the importance of the CASA-1000 project, noting that its completion would significantly meet Pakistan’s energy needs.
He also called for greater engagement of the youth from both nations, encouraging initiatives that build cultural and historical awareness. “The youth are the future custodians of our friendly ties,” he remarked.
Tourism emerged as another promising avenue for cooperation, with the Ambassador showcasing Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty and inviting Pakistan to collaborate in promoting tourism. He stressed that modern facilities are being developed to support the sector’s growth.
Recognizing the influential role of media, Ambassador Atakhanov proposed enhanced cooperation between APP and Kyrgyzstan’s national news agency, KABAR. Discussions with APP Managing Director Muhammad Asim Khichi led to agreements on bilateral news exchange, technical support, capacity building, and information sharing.
Both sides acknowledged that strengthening media collaboration could significantly contribute to promoting each country’s culture, tourism, and economic potential.
In response, APP’s Managing Director assured full cooperation, expressing hope that the partnership between APP and KABAR would grow stronger in the years to come.
