Regional connectivity to boost trade, economic cooperation: Chairman Senate

ISLAMABAD, May 31 (EPI): Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, Chairman of the Senate in a high level meeting with Dunyagozel Akmuhammedovna Gulmanova, Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, comprehensively reviewed existing parliamentary cooperation and agreed to strengthen bilateral exchanges, including parliamentary collaboration, people-to-people ties, trade, and progress on the TAPI gas pipeline, TAP project, and optical fiber initiatives.

The Chairman Senate invited the Chairperson of the Mejlis to visit Pakistan with a parliamentary friendship group, proposing enhanced inter-parliamentary relations through joint meetings and seminars, and suggesting a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate parliamentary exchanges. The Chairperson of the Mejlis accepted the invitation. Finally, the Honorable Chairman expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to the delegation.

Later, Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani also met with Mr. Rashid Meredov, Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan, to discuss bilateral relations.

Chairman of the Senate expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality and reiterated Pakistan’s support for Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality.

He highlighted the importance of expanding political, trade, and commercial ties, emphasizing the need to enhance bilateral trade. Discussions also included detailed consideration of the TAPI, TAP, and fiber optic projects.

The Chairman underscored the importance of regional connectivity and encouraged Turkmenistan to utilize the Gwadar and Karachi seaports.

The Foreign Minister suggested implementing practical steps to advance strategic objectives, including importing Pakistani marble for construction projects in Turkmenistan, and increasing high-level visits to strengthen bilateral ties.