ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Tajikistan have agreed to strengthen bilateral trade and expand cooperation in agriculture, food processing, livestock and agricultural technology, with both sides emphasizing the need to explore new avenues for economic engagement.
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain held a meeting with Tajikistan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Yusuf Sharifzoda, in Islamabad on September 11 to discuss bilateral trade, agricultural cooperation, economic relations and ways to further strengthen ties between the two countries.
During the meeting, Ambassador Sharifzoda invited the federal minister to attend the upcoming Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) meeting scheduled to be held in September.
Focus on Trade and Economic Cooperation
Rana Tanveer Hussain described Pakistan-Tajikistan relations as historic and cordial, rooted in shared religious, cultural and civilizational ties. He said Tajikistan holds an important position among Pakistan’s partners in Central Asia.
The minister emphasized the need to increase bilateral trade, noting that the existing trade volume between the two countries could be improved through greater engagement and the exploration of new and alternative trade channels.
He also highlighted significant opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, food processing, livestock, agricultural technology and value addition.
Rana Tanveer said Pakistan and Tajikistan could benefit from each other’s expertise and experience to strengthen collaboration in the agriculture and food sectors.
Tajikistan Calls for New Trade Opportunities
Ambassador Yusuf Sharifzoda said the decline in bilateral trade needed to be addressed and stressed the importance of exploring alternative options and new avenues to revive and expand economic ties.
Both sides agreed to continue efforts to strengthen trade and economic linkages, increase business-to-business contacts and identify new opportunities for cooperation in agriculture and food-related sectors.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of regional connectivity, expanded trade and economic cooperation in strengthening the longstanding relations between Pakistan and Tajikistan.