Sharif emphasized the potential for a stronger economic partnership, highlighting the importance of enhancing both overland and maritime connectivity
MM Report
ASGHABAT: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdymukhamedov in Ashgabat on Thursday, underlining the enduring bond between the two nations and signaling a renewed focus on economic collaboration.
The discussions, described by officials as cordial and forward-looking, sought to deepen trade ties and enhance regional connectivity at a time when both countries are exploring ways to expand their influence in South and Central Asia. He emphasized the historical and fraternal nature of Pakistan-Turkmenistan relations, noting that decades of cooperation had laid a firm foundation for future engagement.
During their bilateral talks, Sharif highlighted the potential for a more robust economic partnership, with particular attention to improving overland and maritime connectivity. “Pakistan’s ports in Karachi and Gwadar can serve as vital gateways for Turkmenistan to access South Asian markets and beyond,” Sharif reportedly said, pointing to strategic opportunities for trade, energy, and transit linkages.
The prime minister also expressed gratitude for Turkmenistan’s assistance earlier this year, when Pakistani citizens were evacuated from Iran amid escalating tensions in the region. He described the support as a gesture of solidarity that Pakistan had not forgotten, adding that such acts reinforced the strong bonds of trust between the two nations.
Sharif conveyed his appreciation for the hospitality extended to the Pakistani delegation in Ashgabat and extended warm wishes to Turkmenistan’s national leader, Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov. He reiterated an invitation for both leaders to undertake an official visit to Pakistan in the coming year, signaling a desire for sustained high-level engagement.
President Berdymukhamedov welcomed Sharif’s participation in the International Forum on Peace and Trust, which is seen as a platform to foster dialogue and cooperation in the region. The Turkmen leader expressed eagerness to broaden collaboration across areas of mutual interest, including trade, energy, and regional connectivity.
Berdymukhamedov underscored the importance of the partnership in enhancing stability and economic integration, suggesting that stronger ties between Ashgabat and Islamabad could serve as a catalyst for wider regional cooperation. Analysts observed that the meeting came at a time when Pakistan is keen to diversify its trade corridors and strengthen links with Central Asia.
