Pakistan’s growing economy: Kyrgyz investors urged to tap opportunities

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday urged Kyrgyz investors to capitalise on emerging opportunities in Pakistan’s growing economy, emphasising the strategic role of Pakistani ports in providing Kyrgyzstan access to global markets.

Speaking at the Pakistan-Kyrgyzstan Business Forum, he outlined a vision to strengthen economic ties between the two nations, emphasising Pakistan’s goal to turn its close political relationship with Kyrgyzstan into a solid economic partnership.

He highlighted the importance of infrastructure projects, particularly a key railway link between the two Central Asian nations, which he said would unlock new economic opportunities for both.

He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to tackling global challenges like climate change, advocating for joint strategies to mitigate its impact.

Notably, the Prime Minister reiterated his government’s resolve to expedite the CASA-1000 energy project, which is expected to improve regional energy cooperation.

He added that investors are being actively supported through the Special Investment Facilitation Council, with a particular emphasis on nurturing the skills of the younger workforce in areas like information technology and artificial intelligence.

In his remarks, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov also highlighted the importance of improved connectivity between the two nations.

He noted that enhanced rail and road infrastructure would facilitate smoother access for products from both countries to international markets, with Kyrgyzstan poised to serve as a critical bridge between Europe and Asia.

Japarov drew attention to the significant business opportunities awaiting Pakistani traders in Kyrgyzstan, particularly in sectors such as energy, agriculture, minerals, and logistics.

He emphasised the potential impact of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project on regional economic prosperity, forecasting long-term benefits for the entire Central Asian corridor.

Earlier in the day, the two leaders witnessed the signing of memoranda of understanding (MoUs) aimed at boosting bilateral trade. The MoUs and agreements set an ambitious goal of raising trade between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan to $200 million within the next two years.