Islamabad: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held a bilateral meeting with the Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan, Mr.Rashid Meredov, on the sidelines of the 48th session of OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Islamabad today.

The two Foreign Ministers expressed satisfaction at the state of bilateral relations as well as the growing cooperation in various fields, including coordination at regional and international fora.

Foreign Minister Qureshi highlighted Pakistan’s “Vision Central Asia” policy, and its commitment to enhancing engagement with Central Asian countries for building a result-oriented, sustainable and long-term partnership. He stressed the need for greater cooperation between Pakistan and Turkmenistan in trade and investment, enhanced connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.

Foreign Minister Qureshi highlighted that peace and stability in Afghanistan was essential for realizing the goals of greater economic integration and regional connectivity. He stressed the importance of constructive engagement by the international community, including regional countries, for meeting the immediate humanitarian and economic needs of the Afghan people.

The two Foreign Ministers exchanged views on energy and connectivity projects between Pakistan and Turkmenistan, which have the potential to transform the region into a hub of regional trade. The two Foreign Ministers agreed to remain in contact and hold regular exchanges for further cementing bilateralties.