Kyrgyzstan envoy concerned at meagre volume of bilateral trade

SIALKOT: Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan Erik Beishembiev Thursday said that Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan had been enjoying centuries old warm and brotherly relations based on common history of cultural and religious values.

Addressing local industrialists at the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Beishembiev said Pakistan was one of the friendly countries who had immediately recognised Kyrgyzstan soon after its inception. He expressed concern over the meagre volume of bilateral trade, saying it is not reflective of the actual potential of both the countries. He said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was an important mega project which could hugely benefit not only Pakistan but the entire region. “After its completion, Pakistan will become the gateway for many countries including Kyrgyzstan.” He urged the local industrialists and exporters to come forward and use Kyrgyzstan as a gateway to explore new markets of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and many other countries of the region, including members of the Russian Federation.

He invited the local businessmen and industrialists to come to Bishkek's Free Economic Zone (FEZ) and avail the business friendly opportunities in a highly positive atmosphere. He termed the FEZ a big opportunity to boost the bilateral trade ties. Investments and joint ventures from the business communities of both the countries could be vital in this regard. He assured the local businessmen that the embassy of Kyrgyzstan in Islamabad would resolve all their issues regarding registration in Kyrgyzstan.

Earlier, SCCI president Zahid Latif Malik said that increased exchange of trade delegations and trade-related information between both the countries were quite important to strengthen bilateral ties. He further suggested holding 'single country' trade exhibitions and fares which could also play pivotal role in this connection. He informed the ambassador about the salient features of the Sialkot-based industries and the role of local business community in the development of social sector.