Pakistan and Kazakhstan Conclude Joint Intergovernmental Commission Session

The Pakistan-Kazakhstan Joint Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) session, centered on trade, economic matters, scientific advancements, technological cooperation, and cultural exchange, has wrapped up in Islamabad. The session concluded with the signing of key protocols and memoranda of understanding (MoUs).

The 13th iteration of the Pakistan-Kazakhstan Joint IGC was jointly presided over by Ahad Cheema, the Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, alongside Marat Karabayev, the Minister of Transport representing the Republic of Kazakhstan. Both delegations concurred on expediting the finalization of the Transit Trade Agreement and initiating the practical execution of the Roadmap designed for Trade and Economic Cooperation.

Both parties assessed the advancements achieved since their prior assembly and reached a consensus on a series of novel initiatives aimed at bolstering bilateral collaboration. Correspondingly, the co-chairs formalized protocols and MoUs through signatures.

Cheema emphasized the notable strides in bilateral relations between Pakistan and Kazakhstan during the 13th session of the Joint IGC.

He underlined the importance of the signed agreements, notably the roadmap for trade and economic collaboration and the MoU on electronic commerce, which will significantly streamline trade operations and encourage wider economic engagement.

Cheema highlighted essential initiatives such as the multimodal trade corridor and the establishment of the Joint International Consortium of Logistics Companies, poised to stimulate regional integration and improve connectivity between the two nations.

He voiced firm conviction that these endeavors would substantially boost bilateral commerce and diversify investments, thus paving the way for a more interconnected and prosperous future.

Cheema reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to strengthening cooperation with Kazakhstan across diverse sectors, including transport, investment, culture, tourism, and youth involvement. He emphasized that the session had laid a strong groundwork for future partnerships, stressing Pakistan’s readiness to fully support Kazakhstan’s growing interest in regional connectivity and economic integration.

Cheema also noted the significance of interpersonal connections, fostered through shared cultural heritage and growing cooperation in sports and tourism.

He concluded by conveying profound appreciation to Kazakhstan for its invaluable partnership and reiterated the strong aspiration to further build upon the momentum generated during this session, which promises a brighter and more affluent future for both countries.

Connectivity and transport emerged as pivotal areas of emphasis. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of regional trade corridors, especially the Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan and Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan routes.

It was decided to encourage their utilization under the International Motor Transport Agreement. The successful commencement of a multimodal trade corridor from Jebel Ali (UAE) to Almaty, traversing Pakistan, was recognized as a milestone in regional integration. The participants agreed to deepen collaboration between logistics firms and cultivate joint ventures to facilitate cross-border freight movement via the ports of Karachi, Qasim, and Gwadar.

Regarding agriculture, both nations resolved to convene the inaugural session of the Joint Working Group and exchange investment prospects within the sector. Enhanced cooperation in plant protection and quarantine standards is also planned. In the financial domain, progress was achieved toward finalizing an MoU between the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the Kazakhstan Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market. Pakistan also extended capacity-building assistance through training programs for professionals in central and commercial banking.

Tourism and cultural exchange featured prominently in the discussions. Both parties agreed to promote tourism by exchanging lists of certified tour operators and initiating joint promotional activities.