Roundtable with Heads of Missions of Central Asian Republics and Azerbaijan in ISSI

On 17 March 2023, a Roundtable of the Heads of the Diplomatic Mission of Central Asia and Azerbaijan was hosted by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI).

The meeting was attended by Director General ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Chairman of Board of Governors ISSI Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Director CPSC Dr. Talat Shabbir, Ambassadors of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Representatives of the Embassies of Azerbaijan, Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan.

Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director CPSC, in his introductory remarks, briefed the guests on the mission and working of ISSI.

Ambassador Sohail Mahmoud in his speech noted Pakistan's "Vision for Central Asia" policy aimed at deepening political and diplomatic relations, trade and investment, energy and communications, security and defense; cultural and humanitarian ties.

The Ambassadors/Heads of Mission, in their respective interventions, welcomed the initiative to hold the Roundtable and agreed with the overall objective of upgrading bilateral ties in diverse fields and enhancing mutual engagement at the regional level.

The Ambassador of Turkmenistan, A.Movlamov highlighted the huge potential for cooperation in the region and spoke about the importance and benefits of implementing major regional projects, such as the construction of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India gas pipeline, as well as a power line and a fiber optic line along the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan route.

In addition, during the exchange of views, suggestions were made to further strengthen business ties, promote energy and communication projects, and hold cultural events on a regular basis.