Pakistan, Central Asia has common cultural: Ahsan

F.P. Report

Islamabad: National Security Division in collaboration with the CGSS organized a Seminar on “Pakistan: A Land of Opportunities for Central Asian Republics” on 21st March 2018 at Islamabad.

National Security Division in collaboration with the Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS) arranged a conference on “Pakistan: A Land of Opportunities for Central Asian Republics”. The aim and focus of the conference was to facilitate the collective exploration of various opportunities and commonalities that can become the foundation for multilateral regional initiatives, which in turn will lead to strong connectivity and diplomatic relations as well as security and economic stability in the region.

Mr. Ahsan Iqbal- Minister of Planning, Development and Reform presented his inaugural address on the topic “China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): A Futuristic Success”. He stated that Pakistan and Central Asia share a very common cultural and political history. In the present time the bond with the central Asian countries is becoming stronger. We are living in the age of connectivity and network. This an age where we need to explore the opportunity for connectivity and progress. In our region we have a lot of investment prospects and opportunities. In the 21st century, Asia will contribute 52% of GDP of the global world. This will create opportunities for global economy for growth and investment. Pakistan is uniquely located at the intersection of three regions I.e. South Asia, China and Central Asia.

21st century is the century if geo-economics and Pakistan’s vision 2025, seeks to place the country in the orbit of geo-economics of the Asian region. Pakistan now tends to move towards the geo-economics for connectivity. What matters in the future is the per capita income and the GDP of any country for the growth, development, and prosperity. Pakistan in working hard to become one of the 25 biggest economy of the world. Dr. Khudoberdi Kholiqnazar- Director, Center for Strategic Studies under the President of Tajikistan, Republic of Tajikistan presented his speech on “Building Regional Synergies to Achieve Peace, Security and Development”.

He stated that it is important to take into account the interaction of challenges to the development of countries and the challenges of developing regional economic cooperation. It is important to promote the formation of economic corridors, in the center of which there are transport and energy arteries, favorable terms of trade providing concentrated commercial types of activity, creating opportunities for business, tourism and other socio-economic activities.

He further stated that for the Republic of Tajikistan, security is a priority and it is also important to intensify foreign economic cooperation. Ms. Tehmina Janjua- Foreign Secretary, Government of Pakistan presented her speech on “Addressing Geo-Political Challenges to Enhance Regional Integration”. She stated that the Afghan War had negative impacts on the entire region as apart from bringing drugs and weapons, it also fueled extremism and terrorism.