Pakistan and Kazakhstan have agreed to enhance connectivity and trade cooperation through the launch of direct flights, fast-track business visas, and joint business forums, as Kazakhstan’s Ambassador, Yerzhan Kistafin, called on Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan here on Tuesday.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed key matters concerning bilateral relations, trade cooperation, and strengthening institutional ties between the two countries, said a press release.

They deliberated on the initiation of direct flights between Pakistan and Kazakhstan, facilitation for the business community and collaboration between the Chambers of Commerce of both brotherly countries.

Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan emphasised that enhancing mutual connectivity is a top priority for both countries in order to significantly increase trade volume. He announced that Kazakhstan’s business community will be granted two-year visas within 24 hours of Pakistan.

Moreover, a proposal is under consideration to issue five-year multiple-entry visas to members of the Chamber of Commerce to enable seamless business travel between the two countries.

Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin welcomed the idea of organising a Business Forum in Lahore and agreed to host joint business meetings in major Pakistani cities. He confirmed that, similar to Karachi, a business forum will also be held in Lahore to further boost bilateral trade relations.

The meeting also included discussions on the recent visit of Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and other Ministers to Pakistan. Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan shared that he will represent Pakistan at the upcoming Global Transport Conference in Kazakhstan.

Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin expressed Kazakhstan’s desire to develop a trade corridor to Pakistan using its own resources. He noted that various routes, including through Afghanistan, China, and Iran, are being explored to make this initiative viable.

Aleem Khan stated that both countries possess significant potential, and it is now time to take practical steps towards realising these opportunities.

During the meeting, both dignitaries also exchanged views on the current regional situation and the challenges ahead.