RAWALPINDI, OCT 11 (DNA) – Kazakhstan attached great importance to its relations with Pakistan. Both countries have great potential to enhance cooperation in many fields including connectivity links, railways, locomotives, agriculture and modernization of industry through technology.

This was stated by Kazakhstan Ambassador Barlybay Sadykov during his visit to the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) on Thursday.

President Malik Shahid Saleem, Senior Vice President Badar Haroon, Vice President Fayyaz Qureshi, members of the executive committee and a large number of traders were also present on the occasion.

The ambassador said that it is concerning that trade volume is very low between the two countries and expressed hope to further increase it to $250-500 million in next couple of years.

He pointed out that many Pakistani products including gems and jewelry, fruits, vegetables, pharmaceuticals, surgical instruments, handicrafts and leather goods had a great potential in Kazakhstan.

Pakistani exporters should come forward and explore the new markets in central Asian states, he emphasized.

The Ambassador also apprised RCCI President Malik Shahid Saleem about the strategy of President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s for Kazakhstan’s development through 2050.

For that matter, it is offering good opportunities to Pakistani companies for joint ventures and investment in various sectors of Kazakhstan’s economy. He also appreciated RCCI’s efforts in promoting trade activities through exhibitions.

Speaking on the occasion, RCCI President Malik Shahid Saleem said Kazakhstan was rich in natural resources including oil, gas, gold and coal and Pakistan would like to strengthen its cooperation. He urged for increasing road and rail network and connectivity through direct flights.

“Both countries should focus on establishing air, road and railway links in order to boost two-way trade,” he suggested.

“Regular exchange of trade delegations and holding single-country exhibitions on a reciprocal basis is necessary to identify new areas of mutual cooperation.” He suggested envoy to opt for joint ventures under CPEC.

He also gave short summary of RCCI current and future activities.