ISLAMABAD: Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Yerzhan Kistafin, has said that Pakistan and Kazakhstan are entering a new phase of bilateral relations, with enhanced cooperation in connectivity, trade, education, energy, and investment expected to strengthen the partnership between the two countries.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Ambassador Kistafin emphasized that security, regional stability, and improved connectivity are the key pillars for expanding Pakistan-Kazakhstan cooperation. He announced that direct flights between the two countries are expected to begin later this year or early next year, a development that is anticipated to boost tourism, trade, business activities, and people-to-people exchanges.
Reflecting on his five-year diplomatic tenure in Pakistan, Ambassador Kistafin said he would always cherish the hospitality extended by the Pakistani people and the numerous high-level exchanges that have taken place during his assignment.
He highlighted the official visit of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Pakistan in February 2026, describing it as a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The ambassador also noted that the Pakistan-Kazakhstan Business Council has been reactivated and is now functioning effectively, creating fresh opportunities for trade and investment.
Education was identified as another priority area of cooperation. Ambassador Kistafin said Pakistani students will soon have greater opportunities to pursue higher education in Kazakhstan following discussions held during the visit of Pakistan’s Minister of State for Education, Wajiha Qamar, to Kazakhstan.
More Read
He added that both countries are also keen to expand cooperation in the energy sector and strengthen economic partnerships. Stressing the importance of infrastructure, the ambassador said that developing rail and road connectivity is essential to unlocking the full economic potential of Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and the wider Central and South Asian region.
Discussing developments in Kazakhstan, Ambassador Kistafin said the country has undertaken significant political reforms under President Tokayev, including transitioning to a unicameral legislature. He added that the Kazakh government is prioritizing investments in education and healthcare, with substantial allocations in the national budget dedicated to human development.
The envoy also expressed optimism about expanding media collaboration and business-to-business engagement between the two countries.
More Read
Looking ahead, Ambassador Kistafin revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to visit Kazakhstan later this year or early next year at the invitation of President Tokayev. He said the visit would further strengthen diplomatic engagement and deepen the growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and Kazakhstan.
