ASHGABAT, Dec 11 : Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday met Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and discussed issues of mutual interest, including enhanced regional connectivity, trade, and economic cooperation.
In a warm and cordial meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz congratulated the Turkmen President on the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality and the UN’s designation of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. He underscored the deep-rooted and historic ties between Pakistan and Turkmenistan and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations.
The prime minister expressed gratitude to the Turkmen leadership for their support in facilitating the safe evacuation of Pakistani nationals from Iran during the Iran-Israel conflict earlier this year.
Highlighting Pakistan’s strategic location, the prime minister said that Karachi and Gwadar ports offer excellent opportunities for Turkmenistan to expand its trade outreach to South Asia and beyond. He emphasized Pakistan’s desire to enhance connectivity with Turkmenistan through both land and sea routes.
Shehbaz Sharif thanked the Turkmen side for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation, and conveyed good wishes for Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the National Leader of the Turkmen People. He also reiterated an invitation to both President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader to undertake official visits to Pakistan next year, on mutually agreed dates.
President Berdimuhamedov thanked the prime minister for his visit and participation in the International Forum on Peace and Trust, assuring Turkmenistan’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Pakistan across multiple sectors.
Prime Minister Shehbaz arrived in Ashgabat for a two-day official visit, where he is attending events marking the International Year of Peace and Trust 2025, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality.
He is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Energy Minister Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and senior government officials.