President Asif Ali Zardari has called for further expanding bilateral ties with Turkmenistan in all fields of the mutual interest.

He was talking to the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, who called on him here in Islamabad on Tuesday.

The President reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to its relations with Turkmenistan, saying that Pakistan-Turkmenistan relations were based on a common vision for peace and prosperity in the region.

He added that the exchange of high-level visits between the two countries signified the mutual desire to further strengthen bilateral understanding and cooperation.

The President urged the need to enhance connectivity and communication between Pakistan and Turkmenistan, saying that Gwadar port offer great opportunities for promoting regional trade and Turkmenistan should benefit from the port.

The President stressed the need for continued exchanges and dialogue at all levels and enhanced trade, economic, investment and cultural relations for the prosperity of the two countries.

The Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan said that Pakistan and Turkmenistan enjoy cordial relations. He stated that his country would continue to promote economic, cultural and educational cooperation with Pakistan.

He highlighted the importance of constructing motorways and railways, through Afghanistan, to connect the two brotherly countries. Foreign Minister Meredov conveyed the greetings of the leadership of Turkmenistan to the President.

The President reciprocated the sentiment and said that he is looking forward to welcoming the Grand Leader of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in Pakistan.