President Zardari Advocates for Swift Finalization of Transit Trade Agreement with Turkmenistan

President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan has called for the expedited finalization of the Transit Trade Agreement with Turkmenistan, highlighting the significant benefits it could bring in terms of economic cooperation and regional connectivity. This call was made during a meeting with Turkmenistan’s Ambassador, Atadjan Movlamov, at Aiwan-i-Sadr in Islamabad. During the discussion, President Zardari emphasized that the successful conclusion of this agreement would facilitate increased trade flows, enhance regional connectivity, and stimulate economic growth across the region. He pointed out that such an agreement would not only serve to strengthen the economic ties between Pakistan and Turkmenistan but also bolster regional stability and development.

The talks also covered the timely completion of the TAPI Gas Pipeline project, a critical infrastructure endeavor expected to significantly impact Pakistan’s economy by addressing its energy needs. Both sides expressed a keen interest in seeing this project through to completion as soon as possible, recognizing its potential to transform the energy landscape of the region. President Zardari stressed the deep-rooted historical, religious, and cultural ties between the two nations, which he said enhanced the bilateral relations. He called for increased high-level exchanges to further these ties and give new impetus to bilateral cooperation. The President expressed Pakistan’s commitment to working closely with Turkmenistan to explore all avenues of mutually beneficial cooperation.

Further, President Zardari highlighted the current volume of trade between the two countries, which he remarked was not reflective of the potential and needed greater enhancement. He underscored the importance of taking strategic steps to increase trade volume for the mutual benefit of both nations. Reflecting on his past visits to Turkmenistan, President Zardari fondly recalled his participation in the TAPI Summit and the fourth International Nauroz Festival in 2013, during his first term as president. These visits, he noted, were pivotal in fostering a stronger connection between the two countries.

On his part, Ambassador Movlamov conveyed warm greetings from Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and former President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to President Zardari, celebrating his re-election. The Ambassador remarked that the trade agreement was envisioned to extend beyond bilateral benefits, proposing that it could catalyze extensive transit trade activities across the wider region. In response, President Zardari expressed his appreciation for the warm wishes from Turkmenistan’s leadership and reiterated his commitment to strengthening the partnership between the two countries. He conveyed his optimism about the future of Pakistan-Turkmenistan relations, particularly in light of the strategic initiatives being discussed.