Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari announced that Pakistan and Kazakhstan are dedicated to expanding cooperation across political, economic, and regional domains, emphasizing Pakistan's readiness to collaborate with Kazakhstan to promote peace, connectivity, and sustainable development.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, President Zardari made these remarks during a meeting with the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, at Aiwan-e-Sadr. The leaders held discussions on bilateral, regional, and international issues, followed by an extended meeting with their delegations.

President Zardari highlighted the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Kazakhstan, noting that President Tokayev's visit, the first by a Kazakh head of state in over two decades, offers an opportunity to enhance bilateral ties. He pointed out the growth potential in bilateral trade and expressed optimism that the Roadmap for Trade and Economic Cooperation 2025-2027 would facilitate increased trade and investment.

The discussions underscored regional connectivity as crucial to bilateral relations, with progress noted on rail and road linkages. The leaders agreed that improved connectivity would enhance trade and regional integration. They welcomed the signing of bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding, which they believe will drive economic cooperation.

President Zardari reiterated Pakistan's commitment to peace and regional stability, advocating for cooperative approaches to regional challenges. President Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan's commitment to strengthening ties with Pakistan and achieving the target of one billion dollars in bilateral trade.

The visit concluded with a Special Investiture Ceremony where President Tokayev was awarded the Nishan-e-Pakistan for his role in fortifying relations between the two nations, followed by a state banquet attended by dignitaries from both countries.