State Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Dr Musaddiq Malik has said, “It was wonderful to observe and know that, everyone loves Pakistan in Kazakhstan. I went to the streets and markets and talked to people. Everyone was welcoming and had warm feelings.”
He was addressing the participants of a reception on the National Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Yerzhan Kistafin, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan. Federal Minister Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Mufti Abdul Shakoor, Advisor to PM Faisal Karim Kunddi and Chairman of Islamic Ideological Council Qiblah Ayaz also graced the event with their presence.
Dr Malik said, ” Pakistan is keen to enhance its strategic partnership with Kazakhstan in connectivity, trade, energy, and other spheres. Kazakhstan has 4th largest reservoir of gas. It is connected with the Russian pipeline that can open the doors of Eurasian regions for Pakistan. Our ports are available for Kazakhstan and Central Asia.”
He emphasized the need for the establishment of communication and travel means including Air and Road connections.
Ambassador in his welcome note highlighted the history of the independence of his country. He appreciated the cooperation of the Pakistani government in the deliverance of his work. He shared the details of the recently held CICA conference at Astana.
Mr. Yerzhan Kistafin thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s participation and for holding one on one meetings with President Kasym on the sidelines in which both leaders discussed the further promotion of the ties in different walks.
He noted the importance of the 30th Anniversary of diplomatic relations establishment between the two countries, spoke about the holiday history and the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K. Tokayev’s initiatives.
Senior government and military officials were also invited who expressed their solidarity with Kazakhstan through their participation. Representatives of the business community and media persons were also present.
The reception was attended by Ambassadors from Central Asia + Azerbaijan, Europe, and other countries in big numbers.
The Ambassador of the Russian Federation and the Deputy Head of Mission of Ukraine were also present.
Tazeen Akhtar 
