Exploring Russo-Asian markets: Kyrgyzstan offers Kashghar-Bishkek route

Traders can benefit from lower electricity rates.

Kyrgyzstan wants to develop trade linkages in various fields to strengthen ties with Pakistan.

This was said by Kyrgyzstan’s Charge d’Affaires, Kubanychbek Toktorbaev, during his visit to Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, according to a press release.

Terming the Pak-China Economic Corridor a significant project for both Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan as it would link Gwadar to Kashghar with which Bishkek already has a strong road link, he said the route will provide Pakistan an access to Central Asian and Russian markets opening new avenues of business opportunities for both countries.

Mentioning his country’s liberal business laws and its cheaper electricity rates — Rs0.75 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) compared to Pakistan’s Rs1.5 per kWh — for industrial and commercial consumer, he added that it was an attractive country for business.

He also invited investors to explore business opportunities in the country as the Kyrgyz government has prioritised foreign direct investment and has established a Free Economic Zone in Bishkek.

Toktorbaev said Kyrgyzstan, an agrarian country, wants to develop close ties with Pakistan in the field of agriculture, adding education, tourism and culture to the list of sectors ideal for mutual cooperation.

He said Pakistani textile products, utensils and cutlery are very popular in his country which provides a great scope for enhancing the export of these items.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 25^th, 2013.