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ISLAMABAD, May 31 (APP):Newly appointed Ambassador-designate to Turkmenistan Dr Faryal Leghari called on Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal here on Saturday.
During the meeting , they discussed a wide array of initiatives aimed at deepening economic, trade, educational and infrastructural ties between Pakistan and Turkmenistan, in light of shared regional interests and upcoming diplomatic milestones, a news release said.
The minister emphasized the strategic importance of accelerating the early finalization of the Pakistan-Turkmenistan Transit Trade Agreement, which would pave the way for broader regional connectivity and economic integration, a news release.
“Turkmenistan’s proximity to Afghanistan makes it Pakistan’s closest link to Central Asia. Leveraging this geography can unlock unprecedented economic corridors,” the minister stated.
Dr Faryal Leghari said that her research interests, centered on Political Geography at University of Oxford, would equip her to navigate geopolitical dynamics that influence diplomacy.
The minister acknowledged the qualifications of Ambassador-designate to Turkmenistan, stating that a comprehensive understanding of political geography would prove useful while taking decisions related to regional connectivity.
The minister stated that while Pakistan’s imports from Turkmenistan amount to $3.69 million, the exports were significantly lower, with a great potential to be increased.
He suggested reducing the import-export gap between the two countries by addressing logistical challenges.
Both sides expressed interest in organizing a Joint Business Expo, facilitating direct engagement between businesses and investors from both nations.
The minister particularly highlighted Pakistan’s marble industry as a major export opportunity.
“Pakistan has one of the richest varieties of marble in the world. The city of Ashgabat boasts of beautiful white marble architecture and lush greenery, maintained through efficient drip irrigation system. Turkmenistan can benefit significantly by importing quality marble directly from Pakistan, which currently comes from Vietnam,” said the minister, referring to his recent visit to Turkmenistan.
Additionally, Ahsan Iqbal highlighted other high-potential exports including fruits, vegetables, and rice, stressing the importance of establishing direct air connectivity for timely cargo shipments. “Establishing air cargo routes will ensure that Pakistan’s premium fruits and vegetables, particularly our world-renowned mangoes, reach Turkmen markets fresh and fast,” he added.
Dr Faryal said Pakistan, being the 5th largest producer of mangoes, could export mangoes to Turkmenistan via air cargo, benefiting from the potential linkage made possible through direct flights.
She reiterated that establishing direct air connectivity would be an advantageous possibility for both countries.
The minister emphasized on Pakistan’s commitment to the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline, stressing upon its capacity to connect Central Asia to Europe and beyond.
The ambassador-designate reiterated the importance of Karachi and Gwadar ports and their immense potential to attract trade from Central Asian countries.
Recognizing the role of human capital in bilateral development, both sides agreed to initiate a student exchange program between universities in various disciplines.
In the technology sector, the minister shared that Pakistan was the world’s 4th largest freelancing nation, referencing the World Bank 2023 Digital Economy Report, and expressed readiness to export IT services and digital skills to Turkmenistan.
“Our youth, possessing competitive digital skills, can provide critical support to Turkmenistan’s growing IT and service sector needs,” the minister said.
He added that digital transformation was one of Pakistan’s key priorities under Uraan Pakistan Economic Plan.
Dr Faryal Leghari expressed strong confidence in exploring partnerships in science and IT fields during her tenure in Turkmenistan.
The meeting also acknowledged the significance of Turkmenistan’s 30th Anniversary of Neutrality being observed this year.
“The anniversary, during which the Prime Minister will visit Turkmenistan in end of year, will provide a platform for high-level engagement, reinforcing bilateral trust and emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation,” said the minister.