Astana, 26 June 2023 (WAI): The second round of Pakistan-Kazakhstan Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC) was held in Astana, Kazakhstan, with high-level officials from both countries holding comprehensive discussions on many aspects of their bilateral relations.
The purpose of the gathering was to promote collaboration and strengthen ties in the political, diplomatic, commercial, economic, scientific, and cultural spheres.
Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Pakistan’s Additional Secretary (Afghanistan & West Asia), led the Pakistani delegation. Kanat Tumysh, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, represented the Kazakh side concurrently.
The discussions during the consultations covered a wide range of topics, including issues of regional and global importance. Both countries expressed their commitment to collaborating within the frameworks of international organizations, such as the United Nations, CICA (Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia), OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation), ECO (Economic Cooperation Organization), and SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization).
One of the significant outcomes of the meeting was the agreement towards the early finalization of the Transit Trade Agreement. This agreement is expected to boost trade between Pakistan and Kazakhstan and open new avenues for economic cooperation.
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The officials recognized the potential for expanding bilateral trade. Tey welcomed the resumption of direct flights, scheduled to commence early next month, as a crucial step in enhancing connectivity between the two nations.
The consultations enabled both countries to review the current state of their bilateral relations comprehensively. Moreover, the representatives identified new areas of mutual interest, paving the way for further strengthening and diversifying the existing bilateral cooperation.
In his remarks, Syed Ahsan Raza Shah highlighted the importance of enhancing ties between Pakistan and Kazakhstan. He emphasized the need to harness the untapped potential in various sectors, which would undoubtedly contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
Deputy Minister Kanat Tumysh echoed the sentiments expressed by the Pakistani delegation and reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Pakistan. He underlined the shared values and historical bonds that form the foundation of the strong bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Pakistani delegations expressed gratitude to the host country, Kazakhstan, for the warm hospitality and productive discussions during the BPC. They also reiterated their dedication to building a solid, enduring partnership to benefit their people and the broader region.
The successful conclusion of the second round of Pakistan-Kazakhstan Bilateral Political Consultations signals a new chapter in the relationship between the two nations, characterized by enhanced cooperation and shared aspirations for a more interconnected and prosperous future.
A student of International Relations interested in National Security strategies, with a good focus on Geo-Politics, Foreign Policy, and Public & Cultural Diplomacy.
