ISLAMABAD, Dec 04 (APP): Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Thursday emphasized the need to further strengthen parliamentary relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan.
He said this during meeting with the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Zhaparov, who is currently on an official visit to Pakistan.
Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani was also present during the meeting, said a news release issued here.
The two sides discussed a wide range of issues, including bilateral relations as well as important regional and global matters.
Ayaz Sadiq described Kyrgyzstan as an important country in the region and termed President Zhaparov’s visit to Pakistan as a positive development.
He expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen the friendly and cordial relations between the two countries.
Ayaz Sadiq emphasized that Pakistan attaches great importance to its longstanding relations with Kyrgyzstan.
Both leaders agreed on enhancing parliamentary and people-to-people contacts to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation.
They also discussed promoting Pakistan–Kyrgyz economic cooperation and expanding collaboration in trade, investment, and other key sectors.
Highlighting the importance of peace for regional economic growth, Ayaz Sadiq stressed that sustainable trade among regional countries requires a stable and secure environment.
He said that Pakistan continues to strive for lasting peace and stability in the region and has rendered invaluable sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
Ayaz Sadiq expressed concern over the continued use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan, saying that instability in Afghanistan has disrupted regional trade and connectivity.
He reiterated that lasting peace is indispensable for the development and prosperity of the entire region and called for joint efforts to ensure regional security and stability.
Referring to regional tensions, Ayaz Sadiq said that Pakistan gave a resolute response to Indian aggression and successfully downed seven Indian aircraft during hostile engagements.
Cooperation in education, tourism and cultural exchanges also came under discussion during the meeting.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation at regional and international forums.
President Sadyr Zhaparov expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him during his visit to Pakistan.
He said that the affection and sincerity shown by the Pakistani leadership and people would always be remembered.
Kyrgyzstan attaches great importance to its longstanding friendship with Pakistan, he added.
President Zhaparov underscored the importance of promoting parliamentary engagement, noting that enhanced parliamentary exchanges would strengthen harmony between the parliamentarians of both countries.
He also appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region.