Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan Agree to Enhance Media Cooperation Through Official News Agencies

Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to enhance bilateral media cooperation and strengthen ties between their national news agencies. The understanding was reached during a meeting between Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan, Avazbek Atakhanov, and Managing Director of Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), Muhammad Asim Khichi, held in Islamabad on Thursday.

Strengthening Bilateral Media Relations

During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to improve collaboration between APP and Kabar, Kyrgyzstan’s national news agency. Key points of discussion included:

• Exchange of news and information
• Technical assistance and training
• Joint efforts to highlight cultural and tourism potential
• Promoting youth engagement and cultural awareness

Ambassador Atakhanov emphasized the significance of media in building strong people-to-people connections and showcasing the cultural richness of both nations. He highlighted the existing agreement between APP and Kabar, which facilitates daily news exchange and serves as a platform for promoting mutual understanding.

Role of Media in Youth and Cultural Promotion

The envoy stressed the need to enlighten the younger generation about the shared history, heritage, and values of both countries. He called for collaborative efforts to promote tourism, cultural exchange, and mutual respect, particularly through the power of the media.

“Media is a bridge between people. It has a vital role in enhancing bilateral ties, especially in areas like culture, tourism, and youth engagement,” said Ambassador Atakhanov.

Investment, Trade, and Tourism Potential

The ambassador highlighted Kyrgyzstan’s growing economy, citing a nominal per capita GDP of $3,000 in 2025 and a continuous decline in poverty levels. He pointed to sectors such as:

• Renewable energy
• Mining and gold exploration
• Tourism and agriculture

These sectors have significantly contributed to Kyrgyzstan’s 9% annual GDP growth, reaching 13% growth in Q1 2025, he added.

The envoy encouraged Pakistani investors to explore business opportunities in Kyrgyzstan’s open and liberal market, positioning the country as a gateway to the Euro-Asian Economic Zone.

“Kyrgyzstan can become a vital trade corridor for Pakistan into European markets,” he noted.

CASA-1000 and Regional Connectivity

Ambassador Atakhanov said the CASA-1000 project will significantly support Pakistan’s energy needs once completed, strengthening strategic ties between the two countries.

Upcoming High-Level Visit

The ambassador revealed that the Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan is scheduled to visit Pakistan in May 2025, with the aim of enhancing economic cooperation and identifying new areas of collaboration.

APP’s Commitment to Deeper Media Ties

MD APP, Muhammad Asim Khichi, stressed the need for regular exchanges and joint initiatives between APP and Kabar to explore untapped potential and promote success stories from both nations.

“Stronger cooperation between our media agencies will help build mutual understanding and reinforce the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan,” he concluded.