According to political scientist Mars Sariyev, Sadyr Japarov's visit to Pakistan was a significant event that goes beyond ordinary diplomacy and opens new horizons for cooperation between Central and South Asia. Kyrgyzstan has every chance to strengthen its position as an important partner in the fields of transport, energy, and education, while simultaneously contributing to the improvement of regional security through the interaction of special services.
Sariyev emphasizes that high-level negotiations have outlined new vectors for bilateral cooperation that go beyond traditional trade relations and diplomatic practices. For the first time in many years, both sides demonstrated a willingness to implement long-term projects capable of changing the structure of their interaction.
Despite geographical proximity, the complex terrain and mountain ranges hinder the development of trade. However, thanks to the active development of new transport and logistics corridors, such barriers are becoming less insurmountable. For example, the railway route Torugart — Kabul — Peshawar appears promising, as it opens access to Pakistani markets through China.
“A key direction is the use of the potential of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and QTTA agreements. This gives Kyrgyzstan the opportunity to reach the ports of the Indian Ocean through Pakistani transport networks, which, in turn, will significantly expand the country's export potential, reduce logistics costs, and strengthen the economic interconnectedness of the region,” notes Mars Sariyev.
The development of transport infrastructure will open new horizons for trade between the two countries. Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan will be able to mutually benefit from their transit capabilities. Kyrgyz vegetables and fruits are in demand in South Asia, but due to unpredictable delays in transit, they are not yet in high demand. Currently, Pakistan imports products that can be stored for a long time, such as beans, dried fruits, and tanned leather, while rice, tea, and textiles are supplied in the opposite direction.
Mars Sariyev also emphasizes the importance of energy cooperation, which was confirmed by the visit to Islamabad. With the launch of large hydropower plants in Kyrgyzstan, the power line built under the CASA-1000 project will be loaded for exporting surplus electricity. “Kyrgyzstan's participation in the regional electricity export system remains relevant. The potential supply of green electricity to Pakistan could become a long-term source of income for the country,” he adds.
Security is also an important aspect. Sariyev highlights the need to eliminate numerous threats, as stability is key to the region's development, especially in the context of major infrastructure projects and transport corridors that are changing the geopolitical situation.
“Experience exchange, joint training, and consultations on border security and countering extremism can become strategically important directions,” he says. The tension on the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, known as the Durand Line, poses a serious threat to all of Central Asia, and the escalation of conflict could lead to destabilization in the region.
Regular consultations between Central Asia and Pakistani special services in the “C5+1” format could become an effective tool for crisis prevention and prompt response to threats. This will enhance the level of coordination, allow for risk assessments to be exchanged, and strengthen joint efforts to ensure stability in the region, concludes Mars Sariyev.
According to the political scientist, systematic work on logistics, infrastructure, customs mechanisms, and the investment environment is necessary for the successful implementation of these initiatives.
