Zardari begins Kyrgyzstan state visit

ISSYK-KUL/ CHOLPON-ATA, KYRGYZSTAN:

President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday arrived at Issyk-Kul International Airport for an official visit to the Kyrgyz Republic, where he was warmly received by his Kyrgyz counterpart Sadyr Japarov.

Upon his arrival, President Zardari was presented with a guard of honour at the airport, marking the beginning of his high-level visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries, a Presidency's news release said.

The visit is of particular significance as President Zardari becomes the first Pakistani head of state to visit Kyrgyzstan since the historic visit of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in 1995. The trip is being viewed as an important step in continuing high-level engagement between Islamabad and Bishkek.

Shortly after his arrival, President Zardari accompanied by his Kyrgyz counterpart visited the Rukh Ordo Cultural Center in Cholpon-Ata shortly after his arrival in the Kyrgyz Republic.

During the visit, President Zardari was briefed on the significance of the Rukh Ordo Cultural Center as an important symbol of the Kyrgyz Republic's rich cultural heritage, history and traditions.

The two presidents toured different sections of the cultural complex and exchanged views on the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting greater understanding among nations through cultural exchanges.

A traditional cultural performance was presented in honour of President Zardari, showcasing the vibrant folk music, dance and artistic traditions of the Kyrgyz Republic.

He appreciated the warm hospitality extended to him and lauded the rich cultural heritage of the Kyrgyz people.

A banquet was also hosted in honour of President Zardari and his delegation, during which traditional Kyrgyz musical performances dedicated to Pakistan and its people were presented.

During the visit, President Zardari and President Japarov are expected to hold comprehensive discussions on all aspects of bilateral relations and review cooperation across a wide range of sectors.

The two leaders will explore opportunities to enhance collaboration in trade, investment, energy, mining, agriculture, education, healthcare, tourism, the digital economy and people-to-people exchanges.

Regional connectivity and measures to further strengthen the longstanding brotherly relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan will also feature prominently in the discussions.