Islamabad: Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Murat Nurtleu, met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr, setting the stage for an upcoming state visit by the Kazakh president later this year. Zardari emphasized the robust and amicable relationship between Pakistan and Kazakhstan, highlighting shared views on global and regional matters. He praised the recent high-level interactions and institutional connections that have strengthened bilateral ties.
The president acknowledged the increasing trade between the nations and stressed the importance of expanding collaboration in investment, energy, agriculture, and connectivity. He welcomed Kazakhstan’s involvement in regional connectivity initiatives, including road and rail projects, and underscored the significance of direct air travel to boost business and interpersonal exchanges.
Nurtleu described his visit as a crucial step in preparation for the Kazakh president’s upcoming state visit to Pakistan. He reiterated Kazakhstan’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with Pakistan. Zardari expressed anticipation for the Kazakh president’s visit and confidence that it would create new opportunities for bilateral cooperation and economic partnerships.
The meeting included representatives from both sides. The Kazakh delegation comprised Minister of Transport Nurlan Sauranbayev, Minister of Trade and Integration Arman Shakkaliyev, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan Yerzhan Kistafin, First Vice-Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry Kanysh Tuleushin, and Vice-Minister of Agriculture Yermek Kenzhehanuly. Pakistani officials present were Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, Former Federal Minister and Parliamentary Leader of Pakistan Peoples Party in Senate Sherry Rehman, and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch.