Ashgabat (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a meeting with Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov in Ashgabat on Thursday, reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong interest in boosting its connectivity with Turkmenistan through both overland and maritime corridors.
He noted that Karachi and Gwadar ports offer ideal access points for Turkmenistan to broaden its commercial reach into South Asia and other regions, encouraging their greater use for mutual benefit.
During the warm and cordial meeting, the prime minister extended heartfelt congratulations to President Berdimuhamedov on the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality, as well as the UN’s decision to name 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust.
Reflecting on the long-standing and brotherly relationship between the two nations, PM Shehbaz voiced his determination to deepen cooperation, especially in areas related to trade and economic partnership.
He also expressed sincere gratitude to Turkmen authorities for facilitating the safe evacuation of Pakistani nationals from Iran earlier this year during the Iran-Israel conflict, acknowledging the gesture as a mark of genuine friendship.
The prime minister thanked the Turkmen President for the warm reception accorded to him and his delegation, conveying his best wishes for the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.
He renewed his cordial invitation to both leaders to undertake official visits to Pakistan next year, with the dates to be arranged through mutual agreement.
President Berdimuhamedov, in response, appreciated Shehbaz Sharif’s visit and his participation in the International Forum on Peace and Trust, assuring that Turkmenistan is equally eager to expand cooperation with Pakistan in various areas of shared interest.
Earlier in the day, the prime minister arrived in Ashgabat for a two-day official visit to attend the International Forum marking the International Year of Peace and Trust (2025), the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has begun a two-day official visit to Turkmenistan, undertaking the trip at the invitation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
When his aircraft landed at Ashgabat International Airport on Thursday, the prime minister was received with a warm welcome.
Mammetkhan Chakyev, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and the official overseeing Turkmenistan’s Transport and Communications Agency, greeted the visiting delegation.
Adding a heartfelt touch to the reception, Turkmen children in traditional outfits welcomed the guests in Urdu and presented a bouquet to the prime minister.
According to a statement by the Foreign Office (FO), during the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz is scheduled to meet President Berdimuhamedov for detailed talks on expanding cooperation between the two countries.
Their discussions will revolve around boosting regional connectivity and strengthening partnerships in energy, trade, and transport.
He will also take part in several major international gatherings being held in Ashgabat, including events marking the International Year of Peace and Trust 2025, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality.
These forums are expected to bring leaders, diplomats, and senior policymakers from around the globe.
The prime minister is accompanied by a high-level delegation including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Minister for Power Sardar Awais Khan Leghari, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistants to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi and Talha Burki.