Concluding Remarks by Mr. Sartaj Aziz,Adviser to Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs 4th Session of Pakistan-Turkmenistan Joint Governmental Commission Islamabad, 8 August 2014

“Excellency, Mr. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Turkmenistan
Distinguished delegates from both sides,

Ladies & Gentlemen,

Assalam-o-Alaikum and Good Afternoon!

Excellency,

I am delighted to say that after extensive discussions by experts of both sides, we have taken a number of decisions to further intensify bilateral economic cooperation.

The Protocol of the Joint Governmental Commission, which we have signed, offers an elaborate road-map with time-lines for implementation and follow-up.

During this Session, our commonality of views was reaffirmed on the whole range of bilateral economic issues – including trade, commerce, energy, agriculture, industry, transportation, IT, civil aviation, and science & technology.

The outcome of the Joint Governmental Commission reflects our shared commitment to infuse a new dynamism in our bilateral relations.

Excellency,

Both sides recognize that there is a tremendous potential to significantly increase and diversify our trade. Pakistan, over the years, has successfully produced highly competitive and value-added products, such as garments, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, agricultural machinery and defence equipment. We would be happy to meet Turkmenistan’s requirements in these areas.

Moreover, good governance and prudent fiscal management in Pakistan have created an enabling and conducive environment for foreign investment and joint ventures in diverse fields. I reiterate our message for Turkmen investors to take advantage of these opportunities.

Excellency,

As we all know, in the present day market-based and deregulated global economy, the private sector’s role in boosting bilateral trade and investments is critical. It is imperative that our two governments facilitate interaction and collaboration between our business communities. Regular exchange of information on the facilities and incentives provided by each side would be an important step in that direction.

I welcome the decision for organizing the Joint Business Forum later this year, which will provide an opportunity to the businessmen and entrepreneurs on both sides to learn about each other’s trade and investment opportunities and thus help in enhancing bilateral trade. The two countries must also reinforce institutional arrangements to ensure regular, sustained and productive interface between the private sectors.

Excellency,

As we underlined during this Session, addressing energy shortages and enhancing energy security is one of Pakistan’s top priorities. This is imperative for our economic growth and development. In this context, Pakistan-Turkmenistan partnership in the energy sector assumes great significance. I welcome the resolve from both sides to take steps for the early completion of the TAPI gas pipeline project.

I also welcome the broad range of possibilities we have considered to deepen bilateral collaboration in the oil and gas sector. I am confident that energy collaboration would form the nucleus of our economic partnership in the months and years to come.

I am equally pleased about our common commitment to strengthen regional connectivity inter alia through integrated transport corridor. Clearly, a more integrated region means a more prosperous region — a goal that we share and are committed to realize.

Excellency,

It has been a great pleasure having you and the distinguished members of the Turkmen delegation. Our exchange of views on bilateral, regional and international issues has further deepened our mutual trust and understanding and strengthened the growing Pakistan-Turkmenistan partnership. I have no doubt that our fraternal relationship, reinforced by common history and shared heritage, would continue to grow from strength to strength.

On behalf of the government of Pakistan, and on my own behalf, I thank you once again for your visit. It has undoubtedly helped us move forward in advancing our common goals and objectives.

I also take this opportunity to thank all members of the two delegations, who have contributed to the successful conclusion of this 4th Session of the Joint Governmental Commission. I wish you safe journey back to Ashgabat.”

I thank you.