Call on the Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs by Deputy Chairman of Cabinet of Ministers/Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan

The Deputy Chairman of Cabinet of Ministers/Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan, Mr. Rashid Meredov, called on the Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz, today. During the meeting, bilateral matters and regional developments were discussed.

The Adviser underlined the importance Pakistan attaches to close brotherly and cooperative relations with Turkmenistan. He highlighted the Prime Minister’s vision of “peace for development” and Pakistan’s endeavours to strengthen economic partnerships with countries in the immediate and extended neighbouhood. He also underscored Pakistan’s policy of comprehensively deepening Pakistan’s engagement with Central Asia.

During the talks, the two sides expressed satisfaction at the excellent state of bilateral political relations. They also affirmed their resolve to bring the economic relationship at par and realize the untapped potential through concerted efforts. It was agreed to take institutional measures for trade development, intensified collaboration in the energy sector, and promote connectivity through transportation and communications corridor.

Detailed exchanges took place on energy collaboration, with particular reference to Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project. It was agreed to maintain a steady momentum and undertake measures for completion of the project by the target date, i.e. 2017.

The Adviser reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to support all efforts for peace, stability and economic development in the region.

The meeting was also attended by Special Assistant to the Prime Minster Syed Tariq Fatemi and Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry.

Foreign Minister Meredov is visiting Pakistan for the 4th Session of the Pakistan-Turkmenistan Joint Governmental Commission, being held in Islamabad on 7-8 August 2014.

Islamabad
7 August, 2014

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