Bishkek: Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have formalized an agreement to significantly increase their bilateral trade to $200 million within the next two years. The agreement was signed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and the Kyrgyz Republic's Minister for Foreign Affairs, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov in attendance during the signing ceremony.
According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for both nations to actively work towards transforming their longstanding and cordial relations into substantial economic cooperation. He highlighted that the existing trade volume of $16 million does not reflect the full potential of their bilateral ties.
Prime Minister Sharif proposed a strategic target to elevate bilateral trade from $16 million to $200 million over two years. He advocated for moving beyond a simple Memorandum of Understanding by establishing a formal agreement to meet this ambitious goal. This proposal was discussed with President Japarov during an informal conversation, leading to an immediate agreement and signing at the airport.
Prime Minister Sharif conveyed his profound appreciation to President Japarov for his responsiveness and collaboration, marking a significant step forward in enhancing economic relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan.