ASHGABAT, Sunday, June 1, 2025 (WNP): Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, met with President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedow in Ashgabat on Sunday, where the two leaders held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relations, parliamentary cooperation, and regional initiatives.
Gilani, who is on an official visit to Turkmenistan leading a delegation of Pakistani senators, conveyed warm greetings on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He extended best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the Turkmen people.
During the meeting, President Berdimuhamedow warmly welcomed Gilani and reciprocated good wishes for the leadership and people of Pakistan. He expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen parliamentary ties between the two friendly nations.
The two sides acknowledged the existing cooperation in various sectors including politics, diplomacy, trade, energy, transport, education, and cultural exchange. They agreed to explore further avenues to enhance collaboration and to increase exchanges between parliamentary institutions.
Highlighting Turkmenistan’s commitment to global peace, President Berdimuhamedow noted that 2025 has been declared the “Year of Peace and Trust” by the United Nations General Assembly, following a proposal by Turkmenistan. He said the year also marks the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s policy of neutrality, with numerous events planned to commemorate the milestone. He invited Pakistani parliamentarians to participate in these events.
The Turkmen leader emphasized the role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. “Parliamentary dialogue is an essential component in the development of interstate relations,” he remarked, adding that the Pakistan-Turkmenistan Parliamentary Friendship Group provides a vital platform for legislative exchange and institutional collaboration.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Chairman Gilani described the engagement as highly productive. “I had a very fruitful meeting with President Serdar Berdimuhamedow. I conveyed the best wishes of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan, as well as those of the Pakistani people,” he said.
Gilani added that discussions focused on revitalizing bilateral relations through high-level visits and implementation of existing agreements. “We exchanged views on a wide range of current and proposed projects. Turkmenistan’s neutrality policy is a commendable approach that contributes to regional peace and stability,” he observed.
He noted that the current year is significant for Turkmenistan as it marks the 30th anniversary of its independence. “Relations between Pakistan and Turkmenistan have gained new momentum. We look forward to further strengthening our friendship through sustained engagement and mutual respect,” the Senate Chairman said.
