BISHKEK: Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation and develop connectivity projects for the mutual benefit of the two countries. 

This was discussed when Adviser on Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz and Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Mr. Abdyldaev Erlan Bekeshovich, met in Bishkek on the sidelines of the 15th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of Government's Council meeting. 

Stressing the importance of connectivity projects, the two sides expressed satisfaction that all necessary agreements regarding CASA-1000 Project have been concluded. They also agreed to earnestly pursue 'Quadrilateral Agreement for Traffic and Transit' among Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to give impetus to enhance regional economic and trade activities. 

Noting excellent political relation and strong defense cooperation between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan, the two leaders decided to further deepen economic and trade ties, through greater interaction between business communities and private sectors of the two countries. In this context, they discussed visa facilitations for traders, businessmen and students as well as upgrading air-links between the two sides. 

The Adviser congratulated the Kyrgyz Foreign Minister for the excellent arrangements for the 15th SCO Heads of Government's Council meeting. He also thanked Kyrgyz Republic for supporting Pakistan's SCO membership. 

The two leaders also reviewed regional issues and the international situation. They also agreed to enhance cooperation between the two countries at the United Nations and other multilateral forums. 

Mr. Sartaj Aziz is in Bishkek for a two-day visit to lead Pakistani delegation to the SCO Heads of Government's Council meeting on 3 November 2016.