PR No.151 Economic Interdependence Is One Way of Security: National Security Advisor Islamabad, March 22, 2018

National Security Advisor held bilateral meetings with five delegations from all countries of Central Asian Republics Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Besides, matters pertaining to strengthening and promoting bilateral relations they discussed regional security and prospects of connectivity in larger details. National Security Advisor warmly received all the delegates and expressed gratitudes on behalf of people of Pakistan to all. In his opening remarks National Security Advisor said that Pakistan and Central Asian Republics belong to each other by way of nature “we are brothers by Faith and by way of Devine Management”. Central Asian Republics and Pakistan have immense potential to expand and strengthen relations under the ambit of SCO and at bilateral levels as well flourishing economy is the key to enduring relations and Pakistan can help Central Asian Republics to multiply their economic potentials. Each delegation shared their experiences of Pakistan. They acknowledged and appreciated the efforts of National Security Division and Centre of Global and Strategic Studies for organizing a comprehensive conference for Central Asian Republics which highlighted the benefits of coming close and together to consolidate the relationship between Pakistan and Central Asian Republics. They also appreciated for organizing very useful interactions with different ministries and division of the Government of Pakistan. They also stressed on findings more avenues of economic interaction, bilateral trade, energy, aviation and defense cooperation. The delegation proposed the initiative for a bilateral business forum. The importance of success of peace process in Afghanistan was also discussed to reap the benefits of connectivity in the region. “Let’s work collectively for the stability of Afghanistan and support Afghan solution through political means. Stable Afghanistan is the sign of regional prosperity and by means of cooperation lets embrace a greater future,” NSA said. NSA also commended the efforts of NSD and CGSS for organizing a successful conference and expressed profound satisfaction over the trajectory and progression of Pakistan’s relationship with Central Asian Republics and expressed hope to strengthen these ties further. The bilateral meetings followed by Dinner hosted by NSA. ***

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