Kazakhstan and Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan, H.E. Yerzhan Kistafin, expressed his anticipation that the commencement of direct flights between two countries from the 8th of this month will significantly enhance the economic, social, and cultural integration of both nations. The initial direct flight will operate between Almaty and Lahore.
Speaking at a round table discussion titled ‘Kazakhstan, Pakistan bilateral ties and a way forward’ held at the National Press Club (NPC) in Islamabad, the Ambassador highlighted the determination of the leadership of both countries to strengthen and promote bilateral economic, trade, and diplomatic relations.
Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan H.E. Yerzhan Kistafin is speaking to media to highlight two countries cooperation and launching of direct flights from Saturday.
Emphasizing the importance of Pakistan’s vision for regional economic and trade integration, the Ambassador underscored the significant role of Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan.
He acknowledged the strategic significance of the ports of Gwadar and Karachi, which provide access to the European and African markets for Kazakhstan and other countries in Central Asia.
The Ambassador pointed out that Kazakhstan is currently the third largest exporter of wheat globally, presenting ample opportunities for cooperation with Pakistan in this sector. Additionally, he mentioned that Kazakhstan’s membership in the Eurasian Organization could also be beneficial for Pakistan.
In response to a question, the Ambassador stated that following the success of the direct flight between Astana and Lahore, similar air services will be introduced between other major cities like Islamabad, Peshawar, and Karachi.
The Ambassador highlighted Kazakhstan’s vast potential for investment, noting that the country attracted $28 billion in direct foreign investment during 2022-23.
Over the past decade, Kazakhstan has received foreign investment amounting to $400 billion, which is indicative of the country’s investment-friendly environment.
The Ambassador further emphasized the vast possibilities for cooperation between Pakistan and Kazakhstan in the fields of agriculture, education, sports, and tourism. He recognized the significant role of the media in strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries.
During the event, Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, mentioned that Kazakhstan and Pakistan have signed 35 bilateral Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) across various fields, reflecting a positive and encouraging trend.
In her concluding remarks, Nayyar Ali, Secretary of Finance of the National Press Club Islamabad, underscored the importance of the entire Central Asia region for Pakistan, with Kazakhstan occupying a vital position.
