Central Asia

Pakistan and Central Asian States (1992-2006) 1
P AKISTAN AND C ENTRAL A SIAN S TATES

(1992-2006)
E DITOR
D R N OOR UL H AQ
A SSISTANT E DITOR
A SMA S HAKIR K HAWAJA
2 IPRI Factfile
C ONTENTS
Preface vii
1. Pakistan Tracing Back Ties with Central Asia 1

Imran Hassan
2. Central Asia’s Pakistan Connection 4
Svante E. Cornell
3. Inaugural Address at Workshop on Central Asian Republics
4 March 1992 8
4. International Conference on Central Asia
27-30 November 1993:
a. Geopolitics of Central Asia
Agha Shahi 11
b. Pakistan and the Central Asian States
Qutubuddin Aziz 15
c. Impact of Central Asia on Pakistan’s Folk Literature
Dr Affan Suljuq 20
d. Military Impact of Central Asia on Northwestern Subcontinent
and the Emergence of Pakistan
Dr Noor ul Haq 21
5. Report on Kazakhstan President’s Visit
23 July 1993 22
6. Foreign Minister’s Address at Seminar on Problems of Security
and Cooperation in Central Asia
16 September 1995 23
7. Report on Talk between Prime Minister and Uzbekistan’s President
11 November 1995 26
8. Report on the Visit of Turkmenistan’s Chairman of Mejlis
20 February 1996 28
9. Report on Pak-China-Kazakh-Kyrgyz Protocol
6 July 1996 30
10. Joint Press Statement by Turkemenistan’s Prime Minister
and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister
8 August 1996 31
11. Joint Statement of Presidents of Pakistan and Kazakhstan
28 October 1996 33
12. Report on Foreign Minister’s Visit to Central Asian Republics of
Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan
19-20 June 1997 35
13. Report on Prime Minister’s Visit to Turkmenistan

17 October 1997 38
14. Economic Cooperation between Pakistan and the
Central Asian Republics
Defence Journal, May 1998 39
15. Press Conference Minister of State for Foreign Affairs on Visit to
Central Asian States – Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan,
Turkmenistan
6 November 1998 45
16. Report on Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Calls on the
Prime Minister
27 January 1999 46
17. Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister’s Press Conference in Pakistan
27 January 1999 47
18. Report on Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister’s Call on the Prime Minister
5 March 1999 48
19. Report on Pak-Kazakhstan Ministerial Level Talks
5 March 1999 49
20. Report on Turkmenistan’s Minister’s Call on the Foreign Minister
29 April 1999 50
21. Report on Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister’s Call on the Prime Minister

1 June 1999 50
22. Communiqué on the Chief Executive’s Visit to Turkmenistan
15-16 May 2000 51
23. Report on the Chief Executive’s Visit to Central Asia – Kazakhstan
and Turkmenistan
6-7 November 2000 53
24. Joint Press Conference by Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and
Uzbekistan
25 January 2001 54
25. Join Press Briefing by Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Kazakhstan
20 Feb 2001 59
26. Report on Advisor to Kyrgyz President’s Call on the Foreign Minister
29 March 2001 61
27. Report on Advisor to Kyrgyz President’s Call on the Chief Executive
31 March 2001 61
28. Report on Talks with Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan
27 January 2003 62
4 IPRI Factfile
29. Report onTajikistan President’s Visit to Pakistan

12-14 May 2004 62
30. Drawbacks of Electricity Import from Tajikistan
Dr Habib Gul, The News, 21 June 2004 68
31. Pak-CAR Relations: Future Outlook

Dr Maqsoodul Hassan Nuri, The News, 23 August 2004 72
32. Appraisal of the Visit of the Prime Minister to Tajikistan

15 September 2004 75
33. Appraisal of President’s Visit to Central Asian States – Uzbekistan
and Kyrgyzstan
12 March 2005 77
34. Pak-Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan Ties
Mohammad Jamil, Pakistan Observer, 11 March 2005 79
35. Pakistan and Central Asia
Ms Sarwart Rauf, Pakistan Observer, 13 April 2006 82
36. Uzbekistan Courts Pakistan to Boost Security, Trade
Gulnoza Saidazimova, 4 May 2006 84
37. Pakistan Values its Ties with Uzbekistan: Speaker National Assembly
Turkish Weekly, 4 May 2006 86
38. Uzbek President Visits Pakistan
Asma Shakir Khawaja, 31 May 2006 87
39. A Profile of Central Asian States

a. Kazakhstan 90
b. Kyrgyzstan 91
c. Tajikistan 92
d. Turkmenistan 94
e. Uzbekistan 95
40. Map of Central Asia 97
P REFACE
The Central Asian States (CAS), i.e., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan,

Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, with a total population of over 60 millions
spread over an area of about four million square kilometers, are located on
historical Silk Route. The region has adjoining borders with South Asia, West
Asia, China and Russia and is of great geo-strategic and politico-economic
importance. Its potential is attracting the attention of extra regional powers.
Pakistan-Central Asia relations are based on geographical proximity,
common history, religion, culture, traditions, values and destiny. Pakistan and
these states can work together in matters of security, stability and
development. They can collaborate in numerous areas, such as scientific and
technical fields, banking, insurance, information technology, pharmaceutical
industry, tourism and media. The economies of CAS and Pakistan are
complementary to each other. Already there is cooperation in several spheres,
notably, war against terrorism, combating religious extremism and drug
trafficking.
Being members of regional organizations, such as, Organization of the
Islamic Conference (OIC), Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO),
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)1 and Conference on Interaction on
Confidence-building Measures in Asia (CICA), they have common platforms
to institutionalize their mutual beneficial relations. They are moving ahead on
building inter-state roads, railways, electricity transmission lines, oil and gas
pipelines. Pakistan can also provide CAS comparatively shorter trade and
energy corridor to the outer world.
This IPRI Factfile includes, besides a profile of Central Asian States,
selected articles and reports on some of the bilateral visits of leaders of
Pakistan and Central Asian States and joint statements and press conferences
extracted from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Journal, Foreign Affairs of
Pakistan.
31 May 2006 Noor ul Haq
1 Except Turkmenistan
P AKISTAN : T RACING B ACK T IES WITH C ENTRAL A SIA

Pakistan and Central Asia are seats of original cultures and centers of world’s
earliest civilizations. Pakistan’s cultural contacts with central Asia can be traced
back to the Prehistoric times. In the Indian (sub continent) context the
Paleolithic (earliest Stone Age) culture is know as “The Soan,” (meaning gold)
after its first identification on the banks of the river of that name. Whereas in
Central Asia, the same age is known as “Borykazhan”, designated after the
type-site in Southern Kazakhstan.
According to Archeologist S.P.Gupta, “the tools of both the cultures
are astonishingly similar.” It seems quite probable that the Soan culture
originating in the Beas-sutlej Basin moved westward in the Soan region,
crossed the Himalayas and reached the Pamirs (Central Asia).
Later during Neolithic period (late Stone Age, beginning about 8000
B.C.) in many territories of central Asia and North India (Indus valley where
the world’s first village was established) prevailed similar agricultural cultures.
Similar processes of social development occurred in both the regions, giving
rise to urban civilization and states. Likewise in the historical period, some of
the finds from south Turkmenistan (i.e. Merv) have counterparts in the
Harappa culture, e.g., metal and ivory articles, faience beads and pottery.
The existence of links between Pakistan and Central Asia at the end of
3rd and the beginning of 2nd millennium B.C. is beyond doubts. In 15,000
B.C, Indo Aryans came from Central Asia and settled in Indus, Yamuna and
Ganges plains. The Vedas contain considerable information on Indo-Aryan
life. They also established many autonomous states. The era of Achaemenian
state and of the Alexander the Great can be regarded as a special phase in the
history of relations between Central Asia and sub-continent as some of the
regions of Central Asia like, Bactria, Soghd, Parthing, Khorezm and territories
of N.W India like Gandhara region and Indus territories became parts of the
same empire. In 2nd century BC when the Saka tribes migrated from Bactria
to N. India via the Pamirs they carried with them elements and traditions of
Central Asian culture. For instance, the distinctive iron swords discovered at
Taxila and especially disc-shaped bronze mirror came from Central Asia.
Ancient relations between Central Asia and subcontinent reached their zenith
in the Kushan period, with the rise of Kushan Empire incorporating many
territories of Central Asia and a considerable part of subcontinent. They even
brought Shalwar Qameez to our region, which was adopted and later became
Pakistan’s national dress. During Kushan’s period, men from central Asia went
to live in subcontinent and also embraced Buddhism. The discovery of
Buddhist remains in Central Asia and subcontinent has got an important
bearing on the arts of both the regions. Buddhist monasteries also played a
great role in extending the culture of subcontinent, literature, medicine and
2 IPRI Factfile
astronomy to Central Asia. The contribution made by the people of

subcontinent to world science cannot be overlooked. This applies primarily to
astronomy, mathematics and medicine. Culture of the people of subcontinent
influenced all European and near eastern cultures through Greece and Central
Asia. In addition to historical links, shared religious ties further strengthened
the relations of the Muslim’s of the Sub continent with the Muslims of Central
Asia. Religious ties can be traced back to 7th century AD, when Arabs of
Umayyad dynasty based in Damascus, invaded Central Asia. Some 50,000
Arab families arrived to settle in Merv (south Turkmenistan). The second wave
of Arab conquests began in 705, when Bukhara and Samarqand were
conquered. The Arab conquests saw a flowering of Islamic thought,
philosophy and mysticism, which was to turn Bukhara into a city second only
to Mecca for its religiosity and learning. Al_Bokhari, the philosopher and
commentator on the Koran, wrote the Hadith, which is still revered as one of
the most important works in Islam. By AD 900 several independent Muslim
kingdoms had sprung up in Central Asia. The most important of these
dynasties were the Persian Samanids who ruled from 874-999 and made their
capital at Bukhara, from where they acted as patrons to one of the greatest
periods of Islamic art, culture and science that Central Asia was ever to see.
With a well organized army and bureaucracy, the Samanids built up extensive
trading links with Europe and China, thus regulating the silk route.
Samanids period enlightened the world with the wisdom of great
people, such as Physician Ibn-sina, mathematician Al-Biruni and poets such as
Firdusi. Central Asia despite reaching the height of glory saw declension with
the Mongol invasion led by Genghis khan (Temujin) in 13th century when he
captured Bukhara in 1220. Though initially the social and political fabric of
Central Asia was torn to pieces, declaring freedom of religion, yet the relations
between two regions were not affected as many Central Asian thinkers and
people from different walks of life came to subcontinent in order to find
refuge, consequently increasing the course of cultural interaction with the
people of sub-continent. They had a lot to learn from them as the genius of
the people of subcontinent created the great civilizations of Mohenjo-Daro
and Harappa, one of the great civilizations in the history of mankind. The
builders of the superb structures of Mohenjo-Daro, its houses, theaters, baths
and reservoirs were closer to the people than the builders of the Egyptian
pyramids.
The famous Indologist Max Mueller remarked on the riches of sub-
continent,
If we look for a country in the whole world which nature endowed
with beauty, riches and spiritual powers. I would point to India. If I
am asked now as to where under the Sun human explored its own
workings fully and thought profoundly about the fundamental
problems of life and also from what literature should we Europeans
take those principles which can make the inner world of the man
more perfect, wide and more human-I would point to India.
Let me clarify that by India he means Indo-Pak sub-continent. After
Genghis Khan many ruled Central Asia allowing people to worship as they
chose. Buddhism, Islam and Christianity flourished but Central Asia regained
its glory with the emergence of Tamerlane or Timur, capturing most of
Turkistan by 1380 and moved the cream of vanquished regions’ intelligentsia
and craftsmen to Samarqand, where he began to build the grandest capital city
of ancient Asia.
What Europe owes to the Greeks for cultural characterization, Central
Asia owes to the Timurids for cultural transformation and a rebirth into a new
age that has sustained them till today. In his time period foundations of many
mosques and madrassahs in different parts of the empire led to the patronage
of Islamic learning. Without Timur’s conquest there would have been no
Moghul Empire in subcontinent, founded by Babur. During the Moghul
period the cultural interaction between the two regions was still greater.
Economic relationship between the subcontinent and central Asia was so vital
throughout this period (i.e. the medieval period) that even when ruling
dynasties of these regions had strained relations, movement of men and
commodities never came to standstill. Perhaps the most important import
from Central Asia was its horses.
The traditional links among the people of these regions, were severed
during the colonial rule in both the regions. The British colonists increasingly
strove to isolate the people of subcontinent from those of Central Asia but
their efforts failed. In fact the revolutionary idea of socialism reached
subcontinent not from Britain, but from Central Asia. The struggle waged by
the people of Central Asia for their social and traditional regeneration inspired
the finest men of Subcontinent. The cultures of both the regions were so
much related, especially the culture of Frontier Province is so similar to the
Central Asian culture that whenever ‘Jawaharlal Nehru’ visited Peshawar
during the days of undivided India, he is known to have remarked; “as soon as
I cross the Attock bridge across the Indus river I feel as if I am in central
Asia.” Later when subcontinent was divided, Pakistan for many reasons
couldn’t establish friendly relations with Central Asian, despite sharing
common faith and relations that are rooted in the hoary past, relations that can
be traced back to prehistoric times.
One of the major reasons was the fear of communism that prevented
any kind of political, social or economic relations among them. Besides, the
identity of Central Asians was also changed. The Arabic script was replaced
with Cyrillic script, cutting them off from their roots. For several decades they
lived behind Iron curtain oblivious of their past history and their link with
Muslim nations on their southern border.
4 IPRI Factfile
Relations between these regions were also strained because of

Pakistan’s move to join anti-communist pact against Soviet Union. For 44
years Pakistan remained an unfriendly country whereas India, on the other
hand became much closer to them because of its treaty of Peace and
Friendship with Moscow. Finally, when Central Asian states got independence
from Russia, in 1991, Pakistan strove to establish political and economic links
between them but the cultural relations were not revived. Initially these states
were not very inclined to enter into any political arrangement with the Muslim
nations on their southern and western borders. They were also not very happy
with opening their borders with conservative Muslim countries as they feared
the intrusion of Muslim extremist organization into their republics. However,
they soon realized the importance of establishing political and economic ties.
Pakistan increased its linkage with Central Asian states when the later
signed the charter of the ECO on November 28, 1992. Still there is hardly any
movement of people between Pakistan and West Turkistan neither there is any
flow of cultural information through electronic or print media. The old
relationship shared by the people of two regions can only be revived through
some convenient communication network, which is affordable and accessible
to the people belonging to all walks of life.
Imran Hasan
<http://www.newscentralasia.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article
&sid=1247>
C ENTRAL A SIA ' S P AKISTAN C ONNECTION

Svante E. Cornell is optimistic that the removal of the Taliban and the threat that the
regime was seen to pose to the Central Asian states will enable Pakistan to re-establish lost
confidence in the region.
The end of Taliban rule in Kabul and the Northern areas of
Afghanistan brought the Northern Alliance in control of the country's border
with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, a long-sought objective of the US-led alliance.
This has put the US bases in Uzbekistan in close proximity to 'friendly
territory' in Afghanistan, and may give US, British, and Turkish special forces a
direct access to the heartland of Afghanistan.
While this is crucial to humanitarian relief and the war effort, it also
illustrates the importance of Central Asian states' proximity to Afghanistan.
But beyond being a staging point for American bases, what are the Central
Asian states' interests in Afghanistan?
The first aspect of Central Asia that deserves mention is that it does
not constitute a coherent region with states holding similar interests and
concerns. The three states that border Afghanistan (Tajikistan, Turkmenistan,
and Uzbekistan) are very different. Whereas Tajikistan is a poor, conflict-
ridden and Persian-speaking country under Russian tutelage, Turkmenistan is a

resource-rich, Turkic and primarily nomadic country that has deposited a
document of permanent neutrality with the United Nations. Uzbekistan is the
only truly independent state in Central Asia, with significant resources, a large
population, a strategic location, and a very strong sense of national identity.
Uzbekistan is feared by most of its neighbours, and has come to play the role
of a regional power in Central Asia.
Independent for just ten years, the Central Asian republics have come
to develop their own national interests that depend on their unique
geographic, demographic, economic, and political characteristics. As far as
relations to their Southern neighbours are concerned, the Central Asian states
all share similar concerns, although their responses to developments in the
region have varied drastically.
Central Asia and Afghanistan are intimately linked ethnically. Tajiks,
Uzbeks and Turkmens form considerable populations in Afghanistan, Tajiks
being the second largest ethnic group of the country, with more Tajiks living
in Afghanistan than in Tajikistan. Uzbeks are the fourth largest ethnic group,
but their home is the area around the key strategic city of Mazar-e-Sharif; one
of the most known, though not most esteemed, commanders of the Northern
Alliance is the Uzbek warlord Rashid Dostum. These ethnic linkages have
been a factor in the relations between Central Asia and Afghanistan and
Pakistan.
Some analysts have boiled the relations down to an ethnic game where
Central Asia is seen to support the Persian- and Turkic-speaking minorities in
the North, and Pakistan supporting the Pashtuns of the South. This is at best a
highly simplified version of reality. Religious, geopolitical, and economic
factors have often superseded the ethnic factor.
To Central Asia, there are two main concerns that arise out of
Afghanistan, concerns that are intimately linked with these states' relations
with Pakistan. The first concerns security; the second is economic.
For the Central Asian countries that have territory in or near the
Ferghana valley -- that is all except Turkmenistan -- Afghanistan has been a
major security concern in the 1990s. Unrest in Afghanistan contributed to the
upheaval in Tajikistan that led to the civil war of 1992-97, and to the
emergence of Islamic radical groups in the Ferghana valley areas of Uzbekistan
and Kyrgyzstan. Tajikistan remains a weak state, where the government
controls little outside the capital Dushanbe.
Hence the civil war in Afghanistan, and the spectre of a Taliban
victory, has been Tajikistan's main concern. It was feared that a total defeat of
the Northern Alliance would lead to refugee flows of Tajiks to the country
that it could not handle; but moreover that the Taliban's next step would be to
instigate Islamic upheavals inside Tajikistan. On the other hand, the drugs
trade that has involved both the Taliban and the Northern Alliance has
6 IPRI Factfile
involved the Tajik government as well, with over a third of the country's
unofficial GNP estimated to be linked to the opium trade.
Among the Central Asians, Tajikistan has like its mentor, Russia, been
the staunchest supporter of the ethnic Tajik-led Northern Alliance leadership
of the late Ahmad Shah Masoud and Burhanuddin Rabbani. Tajikistan recently
reiterated its opposition to any Taliban participation in a future Afghan
government.
Turkmenistan, on the other hand, has adopted a totally different
approach. It shares a border with Afghanistan as long as Tajikistan's, though
less rugged and more porous. Turkmen tribes live on both sides of the border,
and Turkmenistan could ill-afford a refugee flow of hundreds of thousands of
Turkmens. When the Taliban conquered Herat and the areas adjacent to
Turkmenistan, the Ashkabad government assumed a very pragmatic policy,
and followed the doctrine of positive neutrality that the country adopted after
independence, and which, in retrospect, has served the country well.
As a result, Turkmenistan developed good functional relations with
the Taliban. It provided proof that a country that didn't actively support the
Taliban's enemies could establish good relations and live in peace with the
radical militia. For Turkmenistan, the Taliban never constituted a major threat.
Quite to the contrary, the Turkmens tried to deal with the Taliban to have
their large natural gas resources exported through Afghanistan.
Uzbekistan saw Afghanistan as a much greater threat. Coping with a
religious revival in the Ferghana valley with sectarian and radical violence
attached, Tashkent saw the Taliban conquest of Afghanistan as bad news. As
the Taliban sheltered the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) which most
likely tried to assassinate the Uzbek president in 1999 and subsequently
launched two military incursions into southern Central Asia in 1999 and 2000,
Uzbekistan felt directly affected by the turmoil and radicalism emanating from
Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, the Uzbeks were well aware that the IMU operated on
Tajik territory and that Russia was utilizing the IMU threat to restore
Uzbekistan's dependence on Russia for security purposes. Still, the IMU
obviously operated in Afghanistan thanks to its leaders' connections to the
Taliban and Osama Bin Laden, and thus the Taliban were a direct security
threat to Uzbekistan.
Although Kyrgyzstan has no border with Afghanistan, it was perhaps
even more affected than Uzbekistan, since it is a much weaker state and since
the IMU incursions mainly took place on its territory.
On a more general level, Central Asian leaders increasingly came to
realise that their separation from Afghanistan in the Soviet era had been
artificial, and that Afghanistan formed an integral part of their region. Their
security could not be dissociated from the situation in Afghanistan.
This was also true in economic terms. One of the major features of
Central Asia is that it is landlocked. Uzbekistan, for example, is doubly
landlocked since all its neighbours are landlocked; goods traveling between
Uzbekistan and the high seas must pass through at least two other countries.
During the Soviet era, the harbour used by Central Asia was Riga on the Baltic
coast; this was a decidedly illogical solution dictated by political terms.
Both geographically and historically, Central Asia's most logical route
to the seas is through Afghanistan and Pakistan to the Arabian sea. A
significant part of the Silk Route in fact went across this route. This fact was
soon realized at independence, and the issue of opening up transportation
links for goods as well as energy resources in this direction was gradually
recognized. However, these problems have not been resolved and Central Asia
remains poorly connected to the world markets.
Afghanistan's civil war in the early 1990s acted as an obvious
impediment to the restoration of these historical trade routes. The utter
anarchy during Rabbani's tenure in Kabul made it impossible to conceptualise
the drawing of pipelines, or the use of road or rail resources through
Afghanistan. In this context, the arrival of the Taliban to power led to hopes
that Afghanistan would stabilize and become a possible transportation route.
In fact, the hope of access to Central Asia was one of the several
reasons that Pakistan extended its diplomatic support to the Taliban
movement at its emergence in 1995.
However, the Taliban's policies that alienated and isolated the
movement from the world community, and its inability to effectively control
the entirety of Afghanistan's territory, dashed the hopes of a stabilised
Afghanistan.
Worse, the perception of the Taliban as a serious threat to Central
Asian states also affected Central Asia's relations with Pakistan. In fact,
Pakistan's support for the Taliban, and the Taliban's support for the IMU led
to a perception in Central Asia, heavily fuelled by Russian propaganda, that
Pakistan was pursuing an Islamic agenda in Central Asia and covertly seeking
to overthrow the secular governments of the Central Asian republics.
Relations between Pakistan and Central Asia plummeted, and mistrust for
Pakistan has spread in the region.
In this light, the events in the last two months provide new
opportunities. The Taliban no longer pose a security threat to Central Asia,
and real efforts to reinvigorate traditional trade routes can now resume as
integral parts of the economic development package for Afghanistan and the
entire region. Central Asian states are well aware of the mutual economic
interests they share with Pakistan. It is hence time for Pakistan to capitalise on
its improved standing in world politics to rebuild lost confidence in Central
Asia.
8 IPRI Factfile
Reestablishing trust for Pakistan in Central Asia may take time, but
Pakistan's geopolitical and geo-economic position cannot be ignored by its
northern neighbours. Economic and trade ties are set to increase rapidly, and
funds channeled to the rebuilding of road links and pipelines could speed up
this process. If Islamabad, this time, keeps in mind the sensitivities of the
Central Asian states, its role may gradually be restored to that of an influential
regional power.
Svante E. Cornell
<http://www.cornellcaspian.com/pub2/0111_News_CA.htm>
I NAUGURAL A DDRESS BY M R . A KRAM Z AKI

S ECRETARY -G ENERAL F OREIGN A FFAIRS AT T HE
W ORKSHOP ON C ENTRAL A SIAN R EPUBLICS H ELD AT THE
M INISTRY OF F OREIGN A FFAIRS (E XTRACT )
Islamabad: 4 March 1992
The emergence of independent states in Central Asia is a veritable watershed.

It is the beginning of a new historical phase for the vast region stretching from
the Aral Sea to the Arabian Sea. In its historical perspective, this marks the end
of isolation and artificial division of the region and segregation of its peoples
whose destinies were closely interlinked from the tenth to the 17th century.
The division imposed by the rivalry of Russian and British imperialism since
the 18th century, had finally come to a close in 1991.
With the passing of the interregnum of the great game, the interaction
between the peoples of the region, who share common history, culture and
faith, will be resumed and intensify rapidly in the modern technological age.
For Pakistan, this momentous development carries great significance.
Culturally, we are inheritors of Central Asian traditions. Our poets and
scholars, architects and builders derive their inspiration from Central Asian
sources. Our food, our dress and our language show our Central Asian roots,
geographically, we straddle the divide separating the South Asian subcontinent
from Central Asia and South West Asia.
The resumption of our severed links with Central Asia will refurbish
the Central Asian character of our identity and revitalise the whole region.
The purpose of this seminar, however, goes beyond the rediscovery of
our shared historical and cultural experience with Central Asia. It is to focus
on the contemporary scene, the opportunities that have become available and
how we must respond to the new situation in terms of broad policy and
practical action.
First and foremost, we need to study the present political culture of
the Central Asian states. It is quite clear that these states have become
independent as a result of the collapse of the Soviet Union and not as an

achievement of indigenous freedom movements. Politically, the societies are in
a flux, the Islamic and ethnic sentiments appear to be on the rise. Yet, in all
these states, the old leadership has survived, though the leaders have
discarded. their communist philosophy and assumed new “nationalist” but still
secular orientation. They are also poised to transform their economies. Much
has been written about their preference for the Turkish model, of
development nevertheless, the direction of change remains nuclear. We need
carefully to examine the internal dynamics of these states and to reach
conclusions that can set the broad parameters of our approach.
We also need to analyse and assess the external environment of
Central Asia. Several issues deserve attention. For example, the relations
between these states and the Russian federation, the fate of commonwealth
and independent states, the competing regional interests and of course the
involvement of USA and the West as already evident from the visits paid by
US Secretary Baker to the central Asian capitals
Driven by its fears of the so-called Islamic fundamentalism and its
concerns over the presence of nuclear weapons in some states, the West will
be keenly interested in future developments in Central Asia. Turkey appears to
assume a special role given the ethnic Turkish background of Central Asia.
Iran, the Gulf states, China and India will represent other major political and
economic interests in the region. We need to examine the views of these
international players before we can make a realistic assessment of Pakistan’s
role in the region
In addition to the perception of other states about Central Asia it is
important to understand the role that the Central Asian states desire for
themselves in the region and the world. Their political perception and security
considerations will be germane to the consideration of political and economic
relations in the region. Also the Afghan issue that has dominated the region
for more than a decade, remains unresolved. An early settlement of the issue
or the absence of a solution, either of the two scenarios, would have far
reaching implications that must be carefully analysed.
The expansion of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) is
an event of considerable significance. It is important that in addition to the
three original members i.e.. Pakistan, Iran and Turkey, five newly-independent
Central Asian states of the former USSR have joined the ECO and
Kazakhstan is likely to follow suit. Hopefully, an early political settlement will
enable Afghanistan to join the organisation. The ECO has all the natural
advantages and great potential to turn into a vibrant economic fraternity. A
stable peaceful and economically progressive and dynamic ECO region of
Central Asian and West Asian states can once again serve as link between the
European Community and oriental economies of China, Japan and East Asia.
How best can we promote this objective? We need to identify areas that hold
10 IPRI Factfile
promising prospects and tackle problem areas and pitfalls that need to be
avoided.
The primary objective of the seminar/workshop is to discuss the
development of Pakistan’s political, economic, trade and cultural relations and
multi-dimensional cooperation with Central Asia, Pakistan had lost no time in
responding to the historic transformation of Central Asia. Pakistan was the
second country following Turkey to extend diplomatic recognition to Central
Asian states. Initial contacts were also established even earlier by sending a
delegation comprising eminent scholars, businessmen, journalists and officials
led by the minister of state for economic affairs.
Under instruction of the Prime Minister, we have already taken several
initiatives to establish and to develop our relations with Central Asian states.
These include:-
• Prime Minister’s invitation to the presidents of all six Muslim
republics. President of Kazakhstan has already visited Pakistan
from 22 to 25 February. President of Uzbekistan and
Turkmenistan are expected to pay visits soon after Ramazan.
• Opening of missions in Tashkent, Alma Ata, Dushanbe and
Ashkabad.
• PIA air link with Tashkent which may be extended to other
Central Asian capitals.
• An offer of dollar 30 million credit to Uzbekistan and dollar ten
million each to other five republics.
• Despatch of life-saving drugs and urgently required medicines to
all the Central Asian Republics.
• Exchange of delegations in various fields.
Serious and analytical research must provide the raw material for
reflection. Of course, aspirations of the people, dreams and visions of the
leaders are also essential elements in policy formation. But the realities on the
ground and a proper understanding and evaluation of constraints and
opportunities must provide the foundation for policy postulates Facts without
vision remain barren and visions divorced from realities turn into smoke.
I am confident that with the benefit of your expert and scholarly
inputs we will be able to reach sound conclusions that could help the
formulation of our Central Asian policy in the short-term, medium-term as
well as in long-term perspectives. …
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XIX, issue 3-4, pp. 22-26, March-April 1992
G EO —P OLITICS OF C ENTRAL A SIA
There is a desire in Pakistan that the Economic Cooperation Organization

(ECO) of the Central Asian States, which is basically an economic grouping
should try to assume a political role and in due course of time also aspire to
the possibility of geopolitical role. However, the global politics is in such a
state today that it would not be realistic for the ECO countries to speak only
in geo-political terms. I think we should concentrate on the geo-economic
perspective.
It may be mentioned that the European community, now the Europe
Union (EU), the ASEAN, even the newly formed forum of APEC, are all
assuming the security role of exploring the possibility, of such a role. But the
EU has taken nearly 30 years to move from an economic community to a
single market and then to think of a common foreign and Security policy and
then the Maastricht treaty. But we also know how the EU has failed to cope
with the carnage, genocide and aggression in Bosnia.
Nevertheless, the EU has embarked on an attempt to arrive at a
common security policy. It is indeed, close to political integration. It is, indeed,
close to forming, if not a federation then a confederation of the European
States.
Besides EU, the ASEAN also has begun to think in terms of an
orientation towards security in the South East Asian Zone, and to this end it is
trying to cope with Russia, China, Vietnam, the USA etc. to harmonise and
prevent rivalry among these powers from creating tension and in order to
reach settlement of disputes. But it has taken ASEAN 30 years.
The US attempt to turn APEC from a trading bloc to, as elucidated by
Warrant Christopher, Secretary of State that incremental exploring of Security
has met with a setback, because the South East Asian countries are not
prepared to let APEC security structure supersede the ASEAN
Since the ECO has been newly formed, it is premature to think of
folding upon cooperation that would give these countries communality of
approach towards security.
Similarly, there is talk of the PLO-Israeli agreement. Israel wants to
bring with the help of the USA, a grand alliance of Arabs and Israel, for
security—security directed against Iran, which is considered to be the
fountain-head of fundamentalism and the potential regional power by reason
of its wealth, size and population.
The Americans have already instituted a policy of what they call it,
containment to Iraq and Iran. Iran is also the object of containment (after
Iraq, through sanctions) and isolation and there is possibility of it being the
object of a grand Arab- Israel Alliance.
Apart from the fact that development from an economic organization
12 IPRI Factfile
into security organization takes enough time and reconciliation of diverse

interest, there has to be a common perception of the nature of the threat and a
communality in countering that threat which has to be discovered in the case
of the ECO.
The great powers would be opposed to any form of geo-political di-
mension being assumed by the ECO. The first and foremost would be the
opposition of Russia. Russia is now setting a sort of its own version of
‘Monroe Doctrine’, the sphere of its influence, for its former union republics
which ceded from her after the collapse and some of these have acceded to the
Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). But the increasing influence of
the Russian armed forces in the region and the reaction of the national
segments of Russia in its former republics is of immense importance, in
particular those on its southern territory. Recently we know that the
intervention of the Soviet armed forces to help Edward Shevardnedze over
Georgia was attained at the price of giving bases to the Soviet Union and
rejoining the CIS.
Similarly in Moldavia, there is supposed to be a Russian army for the
Soviet minority in Moldova, since the time of its independence. Then
Azerbaijan, which does not want to join CIS has been compelled because of
the defeats at the hands of Armenians to appeal to the Russians, and the
restoration of a former communist government. Alia-Haider has refused to
give bases to Russia, as a result the territories of Azerbaijan continue to be
under aggression.
The Russian troops are deployed along the Southern borders of these
(so-called) Independent states. Russia’s chief of the staff has said that it was
necessary to deploy these troops to block the entry of the fundamentalist
forces from Afghanistan and elsewhere to prevent their penetration right from
the borders of Turkey Iran and CIS.
So this could be termed as Neo-Imperialism, a new style of Russian
control right along the borders of former Soviet Union and not the borders of
Russian Federation only. In the pursuance of this policy Russia has the full
support of USA, because the west could rather see stability in Russian
Chauvinism than the possibility of destablization due to the penetration of
Islamic Fundamentalism.
Thus, as a first step any move towards geo-political unification would
be confronted with opposition from Russia. Russia does not even want, and it
has in fact given a warning to Turkey and Iran not to take their forces right up
to the border in Azerbaijan, although the Americans have been occupying
parts of Azerbaijan’s Nakarno-Karabagh.
So for as Islamic resurgence is concerned, the leadership of these
countries being former communist sees the commonality of interests with
Russia and the West in opposing the Islamic forces and their activities. For
instance, Ismael Karimove of Uzbekistan is on record that he is opposed to
fundamentalism. So also is the government of Tajikistan under Sultan

Nazerbeyof. There is then the attempts of Azerbaijan Prime Minister to move
close to Turkey. Turkey is now more cautions in trying to project its cultural
and economic interests to these regions.
Of course the US does not want to concede to the exclusive influence
of the Soviet Union (Former) over Ukraine and Baltic republics, but so far as
the Central Asian Republics, Georgia and Armenia are concerned, the US is of
the view that stability is needed in order to keep out Islamic Fundamentalist
forces.
Here one may also refer to the combination of India and Israel to join
together against Islamic Fundamentalists. They have the community of
interests and the purpose to compete. The combination also serves the
American strategic interests in the Middle East and is now being focused on
Central Asia. As regards the containment of Iran by the USA, they believe that
the influence of Saudi Arabia and Turkey will curtail the influence of Iran in
central Asia, but now they have said that Turkey has been unable to be of
effective help to Azerbaijan in coping with the aggression of Armenia. As
such, Turkey’s influence has diminished.
Then also there is the internal opposition. The inner elites in the
Central Asian republics, basically former communists, are not at all interested
in any sort of Islamic geo-politics and they have taken measures to suppress its
manifestation. Again, their record of human rights in the Central Asian states
is much to be debated.
However, the west’s concern about human rights is the second pri-
ority given to their strategic interests. So, Russia is now confident that the
Central Asian states attach priority to their relationship with the CIS, rather
than any close association with their southern neighbours.
Here, one may add a little more about the Islamic Fundamentalism.
Russia’s primary geo-political purpose in Central Asia is to block the
penetration of Islamic fundamentalism. This goes back to the 1980’s when
Nixon himself during his trip to Russia had mentioned how Russia and the
West share their common interests against Islamic fundamentalism.
The West and especially the USA, want to conceptualize foreign
policy, they want a grand team which encapsulate the whole foreign policy. In
1947 they talked of containment of communism, that conceptualized the
American foreign policy and it operated till 1985-1990, till the collapse of the
Soviet Union. Now they are in search of similar concepts but the thinking
seems to be focused on Europe.
One might have heard of Fukohama’s essay that the West has con-
quered, they have not challenged except the values of Islamic fundamentalism.
Similarly, there is another essay written by Samuel Huntington. For him, in
future there would be wars of civilizations and in the coming confrontation it
would be the West against Islam and Confucius bloc (mainly China) and in this
14 IPRI Factfile
struggle the liberal and West oriented classes in the developing world would be
the allies of the West, in the fight against fundamentalism and the war would
be between the West and Islam. There are critics of this theory who say that
there would be wars on the ethnic, religious issues, such as those taking place
in Bosnia, not acceptable to negotiation or peaceful settlement but would lead
to extermination. This is a kind of (new) philosophy. In the intellectual circles
in the West and America, there is some thinking on these lines.
Thus, for the ECO, no matter how secular or liberal, the philosophy
of the state may be that countries like secular Turkey and Islamic Iran to be
contained. Any resurgence of Islamic groups in politics consider a danger.
Toeing the line, Karimov of Uzbekistan has made declaration that Uzbekistan
will not allow Islamic ideology to influence and the Russian Foreign Minister
has asked the United Nations assign it the peace keeping functions in the
former Soviet Union. If there are ethnic conflicts any where in Azerbaijan,
Armenia, Georgia, Tajikistan or elsewhere, the Russians would send the peace
keeping forces but it should be financed and mandated by the UN.
This, as can be seen, is in order to sweep out Islamic resurgence and
maintain stability in the area which was under the Russian domination till
recently. Our intellectual and government circles have to take into account the
forces which are opposed thus to any geo-political orientation towards the
ECO.
Even with regard to economic cooperation, the vice premier of Russia
gave an ultimatum to the CIS states, that they have to chose between the CIS
states or the ECO and this led the Secretary General of ECO to issue a
clarification that the ECO is not a common market nor is customs union, nor
a close economic bloc. Here, one may point out that the scope of cooperation
between Pakistan and Central Asian Republics has significantly expanded and
the emergence of these republics has opened the road of many sided options.
It includes Co-operation between the CIS Republics and their southern
Islamic neighbors namely Afghanistan, Turkey, Iran and Pakistan.
Among these southern neighbours, Turkey has established extensive
cultural and Islamic influence through investment, trade and economic
cooperation It also seems to have influence over Turkish speaking people for a
political model that is both Muslim and secular as well as pluralistic and
democratic towards free market economy. Iran has also established contacts
with the six republics, carefully eschewing theological intervention and
concentrating on the economic, trade and cultural ties, especially with the
Persian speaking Tajikistan. An ambitious project has been concluded with
Turkmenistan to build oil and gas pipeline from there to Bander Abbas Port,
that would also link-up with Azerbaijan oil production centres and beyond that
to the Russia Federation points.
India is also associated with this project, either through the pipeline
project under the Arabian Sea from Bander Abbas to Bombay or by Surface
transportation.
Pakistan has entered into as many as seven agreements embracing
trade and economic cooperation, with broad network of communication
connections from Central Asia to Pakistan and China.
An important agreement has been concluded with Germany for a rail-
road from Hamburg to Shanghai, through Eastern Europe, Moscow,
Tashkent, Kabul, Lahore, Delhi and Shanghai. This would open the rich
mineral deposits of Uzbekistan and Kazhakistan for exploration and export by
Pakistan and through the Arabian sea again, with a new railway road from the
Khyber pass to the Russian land, Pakistan would enjoy the role of middle man
between the SAARC, ECO and EEC.
The pull extended by the Islamic states on the Southern flank of the
Central Asian states and the attraction of the shortest land route to the
Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf and the Black Sea has clearly given discomfort to
Russia. Many Russians view the ECO as a source of Islamic influence that
could penetrate to the north and Volga region, the homeland of the Turkish
minorities who could turn towards separatism. The Russian body-guards
dispatched to the Tajikistan border with Afghanistan is for the purpose to
check the spread of Islamic militancy in other Central Asian Republics nearer
the Russian borders.
One should admit that so far economic Co-operation is concerned,
Pakistan’s offer is rather limited. Look what the West can provide to these
countries. The mighty multinational corporations (MNC’s) have made
agreements with Kazhakistan to export oil. Likewise, Azerbaijan is an oil lake
and there are foreign Western companies with which Russia wants association
to have control over Central Asia. If we can see what others can offer in term
of economic corporation, Pakistan has to face a tough competition. But we
have to make a beginning if diplomacy is conducted smoothly.
The US doubtless has been taking interest in this region. James Baker,
Secretary of State visited it. Commerce Secretary also visited it. They are
interested to invest here. Hence Pakistan’s policy makers should take into
account all these developments and adopt a realistic policy, and for the time
being opt for more geo-political approach.
(Agha Shai, International Conference on Central Asia at Karachi, 27-30 November 1993)
Riazul Islam and other (eds.), Central Asia; History, Politics and Culture (Karachi:
Institute of Central & West Asian Studies, University of Karachi), 1999, pp. 93-98.
P AKISTAN AND T HE C ENTRAL A SIAN S TATES

Geographical proximity, the bonds of history and religio-cultural affinities
make it imperative that Pakistan should strengthen its relations with the newly
independent West and Central Asian states of Azerbaijan, Kazakstan,
16 IPRI Factfile
Kyrgistan, Tajikstan, Turkmanistan and Uzbekstan. Pakistan demonstrated its

keen wish to build speedily the bridges of contact, friendship and cooperation
with them when it hastened to accord them full a diplomatic recognition as
independent and sovereign states on their declaration of independence in 1991
following the demise of the Soviet Union.
The Pakistan Government lost no time in befriending these Central
Asian States when it promptly deputed a Federal Minister, Sardar Assef
Ahmed Ali (now Foreign Minister), on a swing tour of their capitals and he
signed a series of accords and protocols with their Governments to facilitate
the establishment of diplomatic relations, economics and cultural cooperation.
A direct airlink between Pakistan and Uzbekistan pioneered by their national
airlines, gave air impetus to quicker and easier travel between Pakistan and the
Central Asian region. Pakistan, Iran and Turkey, which are partners in the
Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) admitted the five Central Asian
States as the ECO’s full members, paving the way of accelerated cooperation
among them in diverse fields. An exchange of visits by the Governmental
leaders of Pakistan and the Central Pakistan States has enlarged the canvas of
their mutual understanding, unveiling immense possibilities of mutually-
beneficial cooperation. In some ways, this process would have been far more
speedy if peace, order and normalcy had been rehabilitated in war-affected Af-
ghanistan which for Pakistan is a gateway to Central Asia, providing the easiest
and quickest land link.
The Government of Pakistan, despite its economic difficulties, has
provided a number of credit facilities to the Central Asian States to encourage
mutual trade and the setting up of stable banking channels. In developing
relations with the CA States, the Pakistan Government has laid stress on the
economic field because it is in this realm that Pakistan has much to offer to
these landlocked States, particularly of their transit trade with the countries of
the Gulf, South Asia, South East Asia and the Far East. Pakistan’s ages-old
transit trade facilities for landlocked Afghanistan are a model for their
extension to the landlocked Central Asian States. Despite their ethnic bonds
with Turkey. Iran and Afghanistan, the CA States can benefit more from
Pakistan’s port facilities, trade and commerce with the countries in tire
Southern Hemisphere.
Bilaterally and through the ECO, many schemes and projects for
intra-regional cooperation in trade and travel, industrial enterprises as joint
ventures, banking and exchange of technology and technical know-how are
rapidly emerging, whose speedy implementation would be to their mutual
advantage. Pakistan cooperated with the CA States in their admission to the
Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC).
In spite of the strong Islamic base in Pakistan’s nationhood, the
Government of Pakistan appears to have avoided making religion the only
basis for developing its relations with tire CA States; it has been giving more
importance to the imperatives of economic cooperation and cultural affinities.

This is a sound approach because independence has only recently dawned on
them after nearly 75 years of communist rule during which religion was curbed
by the State. All the five CA states are members of the Moscow-dominated
Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and they continue to have strong
financial ties with Russia which, like the USA, is allergic to what in the lingo of
the West is called Islamic fundamentalism. Recent events in Tajikistan and the
role of Russian troops there, Moscow’s covert help to Armenia in its war with
Azerbaijan and its armed grab of some 20 per cent of Azerbaijani territory and
Moscow’s big brother attitude in its dealings with the government in
Kazakstan (where the former USSR’s nuclear installations are located) show
that Russia, the biggest and most powerful partner in the CIS, will oppose
Islamic resurgence in any Central Asian State.
It is noteworthy that the development of inter-State relations and
cooperation among the Central Asian States since their independence is still in
the incipient stage and the institutions and instruments required for the
important process may take time to evolve and stabilize. Any impartial
observer of the Central Asian scene cannot ignore the fact that some of the
CA states have sizable Russian minorities which command influence in the
power base and usually look up to Moscow for guidance. Unlike the Baltic
States which, with massive Western help, have succeed in almost eliminating
their economic dependence on Russia, Central Asian States are still heavily
beholden to Moscow for its economic support. But if they succeed in
developing cooperation among themselves and with other countries and
regions outside the CLS fold, economic independence may become more
tangible sooner than expected.
The CA States have vast untapped natural resources which are
attracting multinational interest and investments for their rapid exploitation
and Pakistan, despite its economic strains, has been helpful to these States.
Pakistan’s loans of $ 10 to 30 million to each of the CA States and its
commitment to cooperate in the building of $500 million hydel power station
in Tajikstan are some of the many indicators of its keen wish to assist them in
their economic development.
A strong, modern banking system capable of operating internationally
without dependence on or control by Moscow, is a dire need of all Central
Asian States and Pakistan has the expertise and the infrastructure to assist
them in this direction. Before the dream of an ECO on market becomes a
reality, the CA states can gain much by setting up their own Central Asian
Common Market with the cooperation of the other ECO countries and their
immediate neighbours. Getting Russia’s cooperation for this venture will be
essential and beneficial.
If the Central Asian States, to begin with, set up their own common
market, Pakistan and Iran, as ECO partners, can expand their port facilities for
18 IPRI Factfile
handling the transit trade of these States with the countries of the southern
Hemisphere. The ports of Abadan and Bander Abbas in Iran and the Karachi
port in Pakistan can handle this transit trade by expanding their facilities
rapidly. The Tajik capital of Dushanbe is about 3000 kilometers from Bander
Abbas in Iran and about 2200 kilometers from Karachi while the Black Sea
port of Odessa for access to the Mediterranean is about 4200 kilometers away.
The landlocked Central Asian states can even set up a joint shipping company
with Iran and Pakistan under the aegis of the EC.O to handle a large part of
their transit trade.
If Pakistan speeds up the development of the Gawadar port on the
Baluchistan coast into a large-size modern port, it can be an asset for this
province as well as for the CA States. Iran is building a railway line between
Bander Abbas and Turkemanistan’s capital, Ashkabad. Kazakstan’s ruling
leaders, who are energetically improving their relatiom with Beijing, have
shown interest in building rail and road links with Urumchi, capital of the
Chinese province of Xinjiang, and thus using the Karakorum Highway
between Pakistan and China for trade via the land mute.
On the face of it, Afghanistan provides the best access route to
Pakistan for the Central Asian States and it is, therefore, profoundly important
that all the efforts should be made by its neighbours to enable it to return to
complete peace and normalcy. In the meanwhile, a cheap and regular air cargo
service between Pakistan and the CA states is the need of the hour. A lively air
barter trade by individuals is in existence between Pakistan and Uzbekistan,
and Karachi’s wayside markets are now full of merchandise brought by air by
Central Asian traders, male as well as female, in the style of the famed Silk
Route of the Middle Ages. Anxious to expand Pakistan’s trade ties with the
CA States, the Pakistan Government allows this person-to-person barter trade,
hoping that in time to come more lucrative and stable trade channels will de-
velop and the Central Asian people will know more about Pakistan and its
people and the common ties of pre-1917 history and culture.
The expansion of PIA’s air network to Tashkent in Uzbekistan and
Alma Ata in Kazakstan is a major step forward in cementing ties with these
two states. The PIA is finalizing plans for air services to the capitals of the
other three Central Asian States. Radio Pakistan is working on projects to
strengthen its service for the Central Asian region so that the people there can
be informed and educated about Pakistan in their own native languages. An
expansion of Pakistan Television’s transmission facilities in Peshawar can
enable it to beam its TV programmes to the entire Central Asian region,
covering all of Afghanistan as well. Media exchanges between Pakistan and the
Central Asian States are at present skimpy and their canvas must be expanded
rapidly. Pakistan should sign treaties of friendship with the CA States similar
to the one India signed with Uzbekistan in May 1993. (In March 1996, a
railway link between Iran and Turkmenistan was ceremoniously inaugurated at
a meeting of the heads of the member States of the ECO in Turkmenistan

capital of Askhabad. The Pakistan railway network, which runs Zahidan in
Iran, should he linked via Iran with Turkmenistan, Pakistan and China are now
working on the expansion of the Sino-Pakistan and Karakorum Highway in
such a way that it will be extended to Tajikistan, Kyrgistan and Kazakstan.
These vital land links will give a boost to intra-regional trade among these
states. Iran’s ports are now being used for Turkmenistan’s trade with countries
in the Indian Ocean region.)
In developing its relations with the newly independent Central Asian
States, Pakistan has neither sought to obstruct nor envied what other countries
are doing to cultivate the friendship and cooperation of CA region. The
recently established Pakistani diplomatic missions in capitals of the CA
countries have shown care, restraint and propriety in their conduct and waged
no hostile propaganda against any other country. On the contrary, Indian
diplomats in the CA region ate said to miss no opportunity to malign Pakistan
and distort the facts of Kashmir dispute in their private talks with local
journalists. It is, therefore, important that the Pakistan should invite senior
editors of newspapers of the Central Asian States to Pakistan and provide
them with ample opportunities to know facts for themselves and to study
Pakistan’s economic development, especially its industrialization, in the past 48
years of its independence
With Governmental encouragements, Pakistani entrepreneurs can set
up industrial units in Uzbekistan, Kazakstan and other CA states, especially for
footwear, textiles, building materials, agro-processing, cold storage, petro-
chemicals, garments and pharmaceuticals. Trade teams sent by the Federation
of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Pakistan to the Central Asian
States in the past 18 months have done considerable scouting for collaborative
opportunities in many economic fields and worked out specific proposals for
joins ventures. But because of the highly centralized and Moscow-controlled
economic system under which the CA States had worked for 75 years under
Soviet rule, a proper understanding of their rules and regulations fur for
foreign investment and industrial operation is essential before undertaking a
joint venture.
Many Western investors find it easier to launch a joint industrial
venture in Russia than in Kyrgistan or Turkmenistan. The Socialist regimes
there still hug the Soviet-style red-tape of controls in planning, production and
distribution. The winds of change are now undoubtedly blowing there hut
their pace is slower than the mind-boggling changes in Russia and its ventures
in a free market economy of the Western type
There is immense scope for cooperation between the Universities of
Pakistan and those in the CA States. Pakistan, which has a low literacy rate of
30 per cent, can learn a great deal from the CA States which have made nearly
95 per cent of their population literate. Kudos should go to those far-sighted
20 IPRI Factfile
Pakistani Universities which have instituted Chairs for Central Asian Studies;
reciprocally if the Universities in the CA States set up Chairs for Pakistan
Studies, it would have a salubrious effect on their relations with Pakistan for
their mutual benefit. The stabilization and steady expansion of these relations
may take time and would require deft, patient and wise handling on the part of
the States concerned. A time may come, perhaps sooner than expected, when
Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan and the six West and Central Asian States;
having a population of nearly 300 million and an area larger than that of the
SAARC region, may form a Common Market.
(Qutubuddin Aziz, International Conference on Central Asia at Karachi, 27-30 November 1993)
Riazul Islam and others (eds.), Central Asia: History, Politics and Culture
(Karachi: Institute of Central and West Asian Studies, University of Karachi), 1999,
pp. 169-74.
I MPACT OF C ENTRAL A SIA ON P AKISTAN ’ S F OLK

L ITERATURE (A BSTRACT )
Relations between Central Asia and Indus Valley were established since times
immemorable. Aryans came to the region in 1500 B.C. After the advent of
Islam Indus Valley attracted attention of many invaders through Khyber Pass,
one after the other.
It started from Mahmood of Ghazna, continued during the Sultan-ate
period till Baber the Great in 1527. All these foreign conquerors were of
Turkish descent belonging to Central Asia.
During the long Centuries of Turkish domination they introduced
Central Asian traditions and literary trends, building bridges of friendship and
understanding between Central Asia and Indus valley. In this context it is
interesting to see that the folk literature in Pakistan has numerous references
to the legend and folk tales of Central Asian origin. Timurid dynasty, cities and
territories of Central Asia have been frequently referred in folk tales of
Baluchistan, Punjab, Frontier and Sind.
Establishment of Turkish Dynasties, the Arghuns and the Turkhans in
Sind and their relations with the rulers of Hirat and Qandhar accelerated the
pace of Central Asian impact on the literary scenario.
In the Baluchi legends of Rind and Lashari tribes, Femz-Sharan cycle
of tales Biburg - Guran Naz and Dostin wa Sharin, all have references to places
and personalities belonging to Central Asia. The Punjabi folk epics War like
Dhol Badshah and Shah Dawood etc. also contain such references.
(Dr Affan Suljuq, International Conference on Central Asia at Karachi, 27-30 November 1993)
pp. 3560.
M ILITARY I MPACT OF C ENTRAL A SIA ON N ORTHWEST

S UBCONTINENT AND T HE E MERGENCE OF P AKISTAN
(A BSTRACT )
Introduction
Northwest Subcontinent is a cross-rood of civilizations. It is due to the Aryan,
Turkish, Mughal, Greek, Iranian and Arab influences.
Turkish Rule in the Subcontinent:

Turkish conquerors like Mahmud of Ghazna and Muhammad of Ghor
established permanent Muslim rule in India. Their conquests were possible
due to superior cavalry, mobility, generalship and offering a better system than
the caste system prevalent in India.
It was because of the better system that Islam spread in India and
large territories in the Northwest and Northeast became Muslim majority
areas. In the Northwest the social complexion of the population mostly
consisted of people with military background who fought against or alongside
each successive invader, mostly from Central Asia. In fact, the main profession
of Muslims during their rule was soldiering.
The British Supremacy

Almost simultaneous to the Soviet occupation of Central Asia there was the
British supremacy in India. About 70,000 British were ruling a subcontinent,
which in 1942 consisted of about 400 million people. This was possible with
the help of the native Army and the British simply could not ignore the
Muslims in the Armed Forces. Punjabi Muslims and Pathans, among others,
were included in the “martial races”. The Muslim element in the British Indian
Army was most of the time almost equal in number to Hindus. The presence
of substantial number of Muslims in the Indian Army, the semi-independent
but armed Muslim tribes in the Northwest, the proximity with Afghanistan
and Central Asia were factors which helped in the creation of Pakistan.
The Cold War Period and Afterwards

We have witnessed qualitative changes in the region: the entry and withdrawal
of the USSR from Afghanistan, the break-up of the Soviet Union and
independence of Muslim States in Central Asia, the formation of ECO, the
emergence of China as a great power, India and Pakistan becoming nuclear
states and the armed struggle in the state of Jammu and Kashmir for
independence.
22 IPRI Factfile
Conclusion
Now due to geographical, historical and cultural affinity, there will be greater
exchanges and movements in bringing Central Asian States and Pakistan closer
economically, socially and culturally. The improvement of communication will
give a fillip to these activities. This will help them in becoming strong
militarily.
(Brig. Dr. Noor ul Haq, International Conference on Central Asia at Karachi, 27-30 November
1993)
pp. 346-47.
R EPORT ON A B RIEF V ISIT OF T HE P RESIDENT OF

K AZAKHSTAN TO P AKISTAN
Islamabad: 23 July 1993.
President Nazarbayev who made a brief stopover of three hours in Islamabad

on July 23, said the two countries have developed close and fruitful relations
adding that during his today’s talks with Acting President Wasim Sajjad and
caretaker Prime Minister Moeen Qureshi a number of areas for cooperation
came under discussion.
He said the two sides discussed the possibility of supply of
commodity credit to Kazakhstan while the issue of strengthening
transportation links between Pakistan and Kazakhstan through Karakoram
Highway also came under discussion during the talks.
President Nazarbayev said that the Possibility of the establishment of
a cement plant by Pakistan in Kazakhstan was also discussed during the talks.
He said the two sides focussed their attention on matters relating to
carrying out joint projects in various areas of economic activity for enhancing
fruitful cooperation between Pakistan and Kazakhstan.
He said “we will do everything possible to further strengthen bilateral
relations with Pakistan” adding that Kazakhstan will also take a number of
concrete steps to attract Pakistani businessmen for investment there.
Responding to a question, he said that the issue of establishing
transportation links between the two countries would come under further
discussion during the forthcoming meeting of the transport ministers of
Pakistan and Kazakhstan.
President Nur Sultan termed the talks as a continuity of ongoing
consultations between the two countries and said that the talks between him
and Pakistani leaders were held within the framework of strengthening
bilateral relations.
Speaking on the occasion, Acting President Wasim Sajjad said “ever

since Kazakhstan achieved independence, the two countries (Pakistan and
Kazakhstan) have been adopting concrete measures to reestablish their old
and historic links.
He said that the two countries are cooperating with each other in
several areas, particularly in economic field adding that “we utilized President
Nazarbayev’s brief visit to Pakistan and discussed with him concrete proposals
for enhancing economic cooperation”.
He said the two sides discussed possibility of establishing road links
between Kazakhstan and Pakistan. Mr. Wasim Sajjad said that Pakistan agreed
to provide supplier’s credit for Kazakhstan, the issue of setting up of a cement
plant in Kazakhstan with the help and assistance of Pakistan also came under
discussion during the talks, he added.
The Acting President said that the experts of the two countries would
be meeting soon to consider further areas of meaningful cooperation.
He said “on our part, we are keen to further develop friendly relations
with Kazakhstan” adding that President Nazarbayev’s visit had been highly
successful and helped strengthen bilateral ties.
Later, the Acting President and other senior officials bade farewell to
President Nur Sultan Nazarhayev on his departure for Kazakhstan.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, 1993, pp. 79-82
F OREIGN M INISTER ’ S A DDRESS TO T HE T ASHKENT S EMINAR

ON T HE P ROBLEM OF S ECURITY AND C OOPERATION IN
C ENTRAL A SIA
Tashkent: 16 September 1995.
Mr. Chairman,
Excellencies,
Ladies and
Gentlemen,
Allow me to begin expressing my profound appreciation to President
Islam Karimov for organising this Seminar. The principles embodied in this
initiative enjoy our complete support. Central Asia needs peace, security and
development. We are convinced that this landmark event will make an
important contribution to the advancement of these objectives.
I would also like to avail this opportunity to express my delegation’s
sincere thanks for the warm and generous hospitality extended to us. I am no
stranger to this historic city. Tashkent is a symbol and a long reminder of the
rich and dynamic cultural heritage of Central Asia. It is most befitting that the
important concept of Central Asian cooperation is being elaborated in this
24 IPRI Factfile
capital city.
Chairman,
The old world order has disappeared. A new one is not yet in place. are
passing through an uncertain and unstable transition. The treat of unclear
catastrophe has indeed receded. Vast arsenals of destructive weapons are being
dismantled. International instruments to prohibit weapons of mass destruction
are being formulated. Yet we live in a dangerous world. Regional conflicts
have proliferated. Existing tensions have been aggravated. Outstanding
disputes remain unresolved.
The existing mechanisms have failed to effectively resolve the ongoing
conflicts. The United Nations continues to be hamstrung. President Karimov’s
initiative is, therefore, relevant and timely. It will strengthen the forces of
peace and cooperation in this region. We note with satisfaction that the quest
for peace in Central Asia is being pursued within the principles and purposes
of the Charter. This will enhance the role of the world body in promoting
international peace and security particularly in this region.
It is imperative that the international community reaffirms its total
commitment to the principles of the UN Charter. We must uphold these
principles in all circumstances. These be applied uniformally, consistently and
without discrimination. They must remain the basis of our actions to diffuse
tensions, resolve conflicts and promote the goals of peace and security at the
global and regional levels.
New mechanisms need to be developed to prevent conflicts. The
concept of preventive diplomacy currently being elaborated at the United
Nations deserves our full support. The United Nations should be encouraged
and enabled to intervene in a preventive capacity. The principles of
peacekeeping should be enlarged to include conflict prevention. In this context
the idea of preventive deployment is a valuable one and needs to be seriously
pursued.
Despite its many failings the UN remains the only credible global
mechanism for ridding mankind of the scourge of war. Our efforts should be
to strengthen this Organization. We should adhere to its decisions and
implement its resolutions. Defiance of the will of the United Nations has
caused great suffering and instability. Equally important is the prerequisite of
strict adherence to the provisions of the Charter in decision making. Selective
use of sanctions and penalties detracts from the credibility of the United
Nations. This must be avoided.
Of late there has been an alarming increase in instances evolving man-
handling of diplomatic personnel. In some cases diplomats have been,
subjected to brutal and savage attack resulting in deaths and severe injuries.
This is reprehensible. States must conduct themselves within the norms of
behaviour. The provisions of the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic and
Consular Relations must be fully respected.
Chairman,
Central Asian freedom was won without blood-shed. Liberation came through
a natural process of historic evolution. The emergence of the Central Asian
Republics marked the’ resurrection of a vibrant civilization which had given so
much to the world. Yet freedom had to be defined within the parameter of the
operational realities.
Pakistan has a strong sense of kinship with the peoples of Central
Asia. Geographical proximity, common values and a well organized
commercial interaction had created historic affinities between our peoples. Yet
the channels of our cooperation with the young Republics were defined with
utmost precision. Our relations are underpinned by respect for the principles
of sovereign equality, non-intervention, non-interference and mutual benefit.
The commonality of our interests make us natural partners in quest of
promoting and consolidating peace, cooperation and prosperity in the region.
It is in this spirit that we have come to Tashkent. These are the objectives that
we hope to promote at this seminar.
Chairman,
The twentieth century was a century of conflict- conflict among nations and
for freedom. It witnessed two great wars, innumerable regional conflicts and
the use of nuclear weapons. It was also a period of unprecedented triumph of
freedom from subjugation and oppression. A new century beckons us. It is for
us to determine its character. Would it be yet her episode of wars, conflicts,
insurgencies and tensions which marked predecessor. Or would it bring peace,
security and progress. We must close the chapter of conflict. We must
strengthen the forces of freedom.
Our actions today would define future. Many conflicts need our
urgent attention. We do not have to go far in our immediate neighbourhood,
old and new conflicts fester. The people of Afghanistan yearn for peace.
We in Pakistan have great affection for the Afghans who are our
brothers and neighbours. Pakistan has no favourites in the internecine warfare
that has engulfed that country. We look to the day when Afghan leaders will
rise above their partisan political interests to work together for unity and peace
and bring hope to a generation that has known no hope. We support the OlC
and United Nation’s efforts in this regard.
Pakistan also wished peace and prosperity for the people of Tajikistan.
We have counselled restraint and have urged all sides to reach a peaceful
solution to the crisis. We support the efforts of the regional countries as well
as the United Nations to promote peace in Tajikistan. We hosted the Third
Round of inter-Tajik peace talks in Islamabad and participated in other rounds
as observer. We hope that the two Tajik sides will sincerely address their
26 IPRI Factfile
differences and resolve their problems amicably.

Mr. Chairman,
In South Asia, peace and security is seriously endangered by the
festering Jammu and Kashmir dispute. The winds of freedom, which swept
Central Asia five years ago undoubtedly gave new momentum to the popular
Kashmir movement for the realization of their basic human rights including
their in-alienable rights of self-determination.
Pakistan remains committed to the peaceful settlement of the Jammu
and Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN resolutions and in the spirit of
the Simla Agreement. Suppression of the Kashmiri people must also stop.
I would like to express our appreciation to the Expert Group for their
commendable work in preparing the Draft Joint Statement on Security and
cooperation in Central Asia. We hope that this statement will serve as a beacon
in directing our individual and collective efforts to promote peace and security
in this region and beyond.
Mr. Chairman,
We look forward to further consolidating our fraternal and manifold ties with
Central Asia. Our peoples are inspired by a common vision nourished by
history and the imperatives of geography- the vision of a common destiny-a
glorious and prosperous future for our nations and peoples.
Let us today, as we stand at the threshed of a new millennium resolve
to work together for realizing this vision and sharing a new era of hope, of
peace, of economic and social development.
I thank you Mr. Chairman.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol XXII, Issue 9-10 pp 48-52, Sept-Oct, 1995
R EPORT ON T HE T ALKS BETWEEN P RIME M INISTER B ENAZIR

B HUTTO AND P RESIDENT I SLAM K ARIMOV D URING H ER V ISIT
T O U ZBEKISTAN
Tashkent: 11 November 1995.
It was agreed during talks between Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and Uzbek
President Islam Karimov in Tashkent on November 11, that Pakistan and
Uzbekistan would cooperate with the United Nations and OlC in their efforts
to assist the Afghans arrive at an agreement among themselves “for peace and
durable solution of Afghan conflict.”
Afghanistan, Kashmir and Tajikistan “with main focus on
Afghanistan” were discussed elaborately by both the leaders. The Uzbek
President emphasized that because of unrest in Afghanistan, “no other
country has suffered as much as Pakistan, and the continued instability in
Afghanistan has also affected Pakistan more than any other country.”
Uzbekistan was deeply interested in the restoration of peace and
stability in Afghanistan and would offer its full cooperation to Pakistan, the
UN and OlC for a lasting settlement of the problem.
President Islam Karimov agreed that a broad-based government
representing all ethnic and other groups in Afghanistan, “would be the most
suitable solution of the crisis.”
Both the sides agreed that “Afghans must arrive at a solution without
external interference and noted that there might be certain powers who might
be interested in prolonging the period of instability in Afghanistan.”
Both the sides agreed that they would cooperate with the UN
Secretary-General’s personal representative, Mehmoud Mestiri, for this
purpose.
On Kashmir, Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto briefed President
Karimov about the situation there and recalled that “Kashmiris have rejected
the Indian Government’s proposal for elections which are no substitute for
demand of the Kashmiri people for a plebiscite”.
President Islam Karimov stated that Uzbekistan sympathies with the
Kashmiri people and reiterated his country’s well-known stand of finding a
solution of the Kashmir problem, in accordance with UN Security Council
resolutions.
On Tajikistan, both the sides expressed their concern for the
continued fighting and expressed the hope that positive results would be
forthcoming at the fifth round of intra-Tajik talks, beginning in Ashakabad
from Nov. 20. The talks lasted about two and a half hours and covered
bilateral relations, situation in the region with particular reference to
Afghanistan.
On bilateral scene, both sides agreed that development of these
relations was extremely beneficial for both sides and one of the principal
impediment to further development of these relations was the absence of
quick communication links. That is why, both the countries have deep
commercial, economic and strategic interest in the restoration of peace and
stability in Afghanistan.
The two leaders continued their discussion and exchanged views
during lunch hosted by President Islam Karimov.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXII, Issue 11-12, pp. 25-26 Nov-Dec 1995
28 IPRI Factfile
R EPORT ON A V ISIT OF T HE C HAIRMAN OF T HE M EJLIS

OF T URKMENISTAN TO P AKISTAN
Islamabad: 20 February 1996.
The Chairman of the MejIis of Turkmenistan Mr. Muradov Sahat Nepesovich

visited Pakistan at the invitation of the Senate Chairman as leader of a 7-
member parliamentary delegation from 18-20 February, 1996.
Call on Chairman Senate:

The delegation called on Senate Chairman Wasim Sajjad in his office on 18
February. Welcoming the delegation, Mr. Wasim Sajjad stressed the need for
closer cooperation between Pakistan and Turkmenistan.
He said that he was very happy to note that after independence of
Turkmenistan both the fraternal countries were trying to revive their
relationship and intensify bilateral contacts in every possible field. He added
that Pakistan’s desire to develop special relationship with Turkmenistan was
manifested in Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s undertaking her first visit to
Central Asia from Turkmenistan, while President Farooq Ahmed Khan
Leghari’s visit was yet another step in that direction, he said.
Senate Chairman expressed the hope that the visit by the delegation of
Mejlis would prove to be a mile-stone in further developing the friendly
relations between both the countries on the basis of internationally recognized
principles of sovereign equality, non-interference and mutual benefit.
Mr. Wasim Sajjad said that Pakistan would be happy to assist
Turkmenistan in its transition from a command and control economy to a
market economy.
He noted that the continuing conflict in Afghanistan has caused
tremendous death and destruction and called upon Turkmenistan and other
well-wishers of Afghanistan to persevere in their efforts for peace and stability
in Afghanistan.
Senate Chairman also briefed the delegation about the working of the
Parliament of Pakistan.
Chairman of Mejlis of the Turkmenistan, Mr. Muradov Sahat
Nepesovich appreciated Pakistan for co-sponsoring a resolution at the UN
General Assembly declaring Turkmenistan to be a neutral state. He said that
President Saparmurat Niyazov has carried very good memories of his visit to
Pakistan and we ourselves feel as if we are amongst our own brothers and
sisters. He also apprised the Chairman Senate about the mode of election and
composition of the Mejlis.
The Turkmenistan delegation, which met Chairman Senate, also
included MPs Mr. Malikgulyev Garly, Ms. Pyshtyeva Jazgul Shamyradovna and
Mr. Ashyrov Saprmamed and Head of the Managing Department of Cabinet

Mr. Babayev Gurbangeldi. Senator Sardar Yaqoob Khan Nasir, Senator Khalil-
ur-Rehman, Secretary Senate Abdul Qayyum Khan and ambassador of
Turkmenistan in Pakistan Mr. Berdiniyazov Fapar were also present in the
meeting.
Later, Chairman of the Turkmerristan Mejlis planted a tree in the
compound of the Parliament House as a memento of his visit and also as
testimony to the friendship between both the countries.
Call on Speaker National Assembly

Later, the 7-members parliamentary delegation of Turkmenistan also called on
Speaker of National Assembly Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani.
While talking to the delegation National Assembly Speaker remarked
about the two visits of the President of Turkmenistan to Pakistan and the
visits of the Prime Minister and the President of Pakistan to Turkmenistan
which clearly “show the desire of both the countries to evolve special
relationship between them.”
The Speaker also underlined the need of more closer parliament to
parliament contacts between the two countries.
The Speaker expressed Pakistan’s desire to have good relations with
all the neighbour countries including India, but specifically mentioned the long
outstanding Kashmir dispute which was a source of tension and conflict
between India and Pakistan.
“Pakistan is ready to enter into negotiation with. India to resolve this
dispute through peaceful means within the framework of UN Resolutions and
in the spirit of Simla Accord, the Speaker remarked.
“Ironically enough”, the Speaker emphasized, “It was India which
moved the resolution of 1948, recognizing the need to holding a free and fair
plebiscite to determine the future of Kashmiri people.”
The Speaker specifically mentioned about the MoU signed by the
Prime Minister of Pakistan and President Niyazov for the establishment of
natural gas pipeline from Turkmenistan to Pakistan, “which shows closer
economic links between the two countries.” He also remarked about the
establishment of Railway link between Chaman and Kushka via Herat which
the Ministry of Railways and Board of Investment are actively pursuing under
the memorandum of understandings signed with the Spanish institute of
foreign trade.
The Chairman of the Mejlis thanked the Speaker and Pakistani nation
for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation and agreed with
the Speaker to have more closer economic ties between the two countries. He
also invited the Speaker to visit Turkmenistan. The Speaker also hosted a
30 IPRI Factfile
lunch in the honour of Turkmenistan visiting delegation.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, pp. 185-187, Jan-Feb; 1996
R EPORT ON S IGNING OF P AK -C HINA -K AZAKH -K YRGYZ

P ROTOCOL ON U NIFIED C USTOMS P ROCEDURES
Islamabad: 6 July 1996.
On July 6, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyz Republic signed a Protocol

agreeing on set of rules and regulations and making a major breakthrough for
transit trade between the four countries.
The quadrilateral agreement signed between the customs and
immigration officials will allow a common set of documents to be accepted by
the customs officials at the entry and exit border posts of four countries.
Basically, the agreement deals with a standard procedure relating to
scrutiny of documents at the port of entry, examination of goods, assessment
of goods, loading of cargo and movement in transit.
The Chairman National Highway Authority, Shahid Aziz Siddiqui,
who presided the concluding session said the agreement is expected to result
in a gradual switch-over of transit trade to this route due to less and
inexpensive distance.
He said most of the sections of the road on the 3 570 km- route is in
excellent condition and those needed improvement will be done in the next
one to two yeas, by the four countries.
The Chairman said, under the directives of Prime Minister Benazir
Bhutto, work on the up-gradation project of the Karakorum Highway is being
completed at full speed.
The agreement also specifies procedure for verification of goods
transit with transfer across border and principals of implementing the passport
and visa regime. Of the four contracting parties, Pakistan and Kazakhstan
agreed that one-year multiple entry visas be endorsed on valid passports of the
personnel concerned with Goods-in Transit. The concerned personnel include
freight forwarders, transporters, drivers and importers if accompanying the
Goods-in-Transit.
Under the agreement, visas would be issued for undertaking
maximum of six visits and would be valid for the duration of the international
road transit permit.
China and Kyrgystan agreed to recommend to the competent
authorities of their respective governments to extend the same facility.
The parties also agreed that the following transit time will be allowed
for movement of goods from point of entry to exit: Kazakhstan seven days,
Kyrghystan 30 days, China 180 days and Pakistan 30 days.
According to the agreement the Goods-in-Transit shall be processed

under visual examination system. The Examining Officer may carry out visual-
inspection to verify the declared description/quantity. However, in case of
doubt or where the seals have been found broken/tempered with, he shall
examine the goods.
In case of any discrepancy in description or quantity, or in the case of
goods, prohibited under respective national legislation or restricted by the
signing parties, the case shall be processed further as per the existing relevant
national laws.
The goods in transit shall preferably be transported in
covered/containerized-vehicles. In case of the commodities which cannot be
containerized or due to non-availability of containerized vehicles, open
vehicles shall be permitted.
However, such vehicles shall be covered with Tarpaulin and secured
with ropes and properly sealed. Chairman NHA, Shahid Aziz Siddiqui further
said that at present, by land routes there is hardly any trade. But now, he
hoped, due to this agreement there will be a significant improvement in trade.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Policy Planning Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Government of Pakistan, Islamabad pp. 185-186, July 1996
J OINT P RESS S TATEMENT I SSUED AT T HE C ONCLUSION OF

V ISIT TO P AKISTAN BY H.E. M R . B ORIS S HIKHMURADOV ,
D EPUTY P RIME M INISTER AND F OREIGN M INISTER OF
T URKMENISTAN
Islamabad: 8 August 1996.
Mr. Boris Shikhmuradov, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of

Turkmenistan paid an official visit to Pakistan from 6-8 August, 1996, at the
invitation of Sardar Aseff Ahmad Ali, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic
of Pakistan. During his stay in Pakistan, the Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister
was accorded warm and cordial welcome, reflective of the excellent relations
existing [between] the two fraternal countries.
2. The Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan called on the President and
Prime Minister of Pakistan and held official talks with the Foreign Minister.
Views were exchanged on matters of bilateral, regional and international
interest. The talks, held in an atmosphere of warmth, friendship and
understanding, were marked by a commonality of views.
3. The Foreign Minister of Pakistan briefed Shikhmuradov about the salient
features of Pakistan’s foreign policy based on firm adherence to the principles
of sovereignty, territorial integrity, national independence, noninterference in
the internal affairs of other States and respect for the right of all states to
32 IPRI Factfile
choose freely their own political and economic systems.

4. The two sides reviewed the latest situation in Afghanistan and expressed
their deep concern at the continuing fratricidal conflict and its consequences
for peace and security of the neighbouring countries. They stressed that the
restoration of peace and stability in Afghanistan was essential for the
reconstruction and rehabilitation of that country. While reaffirming the policy
of strict non-interference in the internal affairs of Afghanistan, they urged
leaders of various Afghan parties to sit together for working out a just and
equitable political settlement in accordance with the aspirations of the Afghan
people. The Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister assured the Foreign Minister of
Pakistan of his country’s support for achieving peace and conciliation in
Afghanistan and Turkmenistan’s willingness to cooperate with Pakistan
towards this end.
5. The two sides also expressed their concern about the situation in tan.
The Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister briefed the Foreign Minister outcome of
the third phase of the 5th round of Inter-Tajik Peace Talks under the UN
auspices in Ashgabat. They agreed that continuing instability in Tajikistan
undermined peace and tranquility in the region. They reiterated that political
differences could not be resolved through the use of force and urged that
steps be taken to allow the UN peace process and other efforts to achieve
peace in Tajikistan.
6. The two sides discussed the situation in Kashmir. The Foreign
Minister briefed the Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan’s persistent
efforts for a peaceful negotiated settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute
in accordance with UN resolutions. Based upon the principle of permanent
neutrality of Turkmenistan, the Deputy Prime Minister appreciated Pakistan’s
efforts for a just political settlement in Kashmir. He emphasised that such a
solution would reduce tensions in South Asia and enable that South Asian
States to devote their energies and resources to ameliorating the well-being of
their peoples. The Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister also expressed
Turkmenistan’s readiness to assist in the just resolution of the Jammu and
Kashmir dispute.
7. Both sides expressed their opposition to any nuclear and ballistic
missile race in the region and expressed their strong support for nuclear non-
proliferation and for an early conclusion of a universal and Comprehensive
Test Ban Treaty.
8. Both sides reaffirmed that they would continue to give priority to
communication projects linking the two countries of the region by road,
railway, electricity transmission, oil and gas pipeline which would provide a
north-south solution for the Central Asian region and beyond to market its
energy resources and other goods and products and also constitute the
shortest route to the sea for this region for imports as well. Both sides recalled
that these projects were being undertaken under the umbrella of the Tripartite
Accord to further develop such projects signed between Turkmenistan,

Afghanistan and Pakistan in Islamabad in August 1993 and a Quadripartite
Accord signed between Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Pakistan
in Ashgabat in May, 1996.
9. Taking notes of the momentous transformation the world over and
the importance of regional cooperation the two sides called for providing
greater impetus to collaboration among the member states of Economic
Cooperation Organization (ECO). Both sides renewed their commitment to
promote the ECO as an effective instrument for regional economic
cooperation.
10. The Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the
gracious welcome and the generous hospitality extended by the Government
and the people of Pakistan during his visit to Pakistan.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXIII, Issue 8, pp 281-283, August 1996
T EXT OF P AK -K AZAK J OINT S TATEMENT I SSUED ON THE

C ONCLUSION OF P RESIDENT F AROOQ A HMED K HAN
L EGHARI ’ S V ISIT OF T HE R EPUBLIC OF K AZAKHSTAN
Almaty: 28 October 1996.
The President of the Republic of Kazakstan Nursultan Nazarbaev and the

President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mr. Farooq Ahmed Khan
Leghari desirous of further expanding and deepening the friendly relations
between the two countries, hne agreed as follows:
The Parties, determined to develop mutually beneficial and friendly
relations through mutual confidence and understanding, based on principles of
equality of states and respect for each others sovereignty, rejection of any kind
of pressure, with a view to development of dynamic inter-state relations which
will meet the common-interests of the people of the Republic of Kazakstan
and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan:
• The Republic of Kazakstan and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
shall strive to develop relations in conformity with the UN
Charter and shall contribute in every way to strengthening peace
and stability in the Asian continent and in the world at large:
• The Parties also confirm their intention to cooperate closely
within the framework of the UN and other international and
regional organizations of which they are members:
• The Parties will support United Nations in its efforts to maintain
peace and security on the basis of its Charter and UN Security
Council Resolutions;
34 IPRI Factfile
• The Parties will cooperate closely to promote peace, disarmament

and non-proliferation in Asia. In this context they expressed
support for the initiatives taken by the two sides in these fields;
• The Parties agreed that establishment of peace and stability was a
prerequisite for the socio-economic development and progress of
the region. The Parties re-affirmed their resolve to promote
strengthening of peace and stability in the region actively;
• The Parties particularly underlined the importance of adequately
preparing for the Conference on Interaction and Confidence
Building Measures in Asia;
• The Parties shall promote and strengthen interaction in the fields
of politics, economy, trade, culture, and shall also render
necessary support to the development of contacts between
government, public, youth and sport organizations;
• The Parties shall encourage the activity of the Joint Commission
on economic, science and technical cooperation. They shall also
conduct consultations between respective agencies of Kazakstan
and Pakistan to elaborate concrete proposal for cooperation on
bilateral as well as multilateral basis, particularly in the field of
economy and transportation;
• Kazakstan and Pakistan will support the business circles of the
two countries in their efforts to expand cooperation in such fields
as agriculture, oil and gas production, manufacturing industry,
exchanges of high technologies, scientific research and the
promotion of joint ventures;
• The Parties shall undertake the dissemination of information
about Kazakstan and Pakistan respectively through the mass
media, and encourage the exchanges of intellectual and cultural
delegations as well as expansion of contacts in the fields of
education, culture, tourism and sport;
• The Parties shall coordinate their efforts in the struggle against
international terrorism, organized crime, illegal traffic of narcotics
and for that purpose the Parties shall cooperate within the
framework of international and regional organizations, as well as
on bilateral basis;
The Parties proceed from the shared understanding, that the
development of ties and contacts between the Republic of Kazakstan and the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan will further promote the strengthening of peace
and cooperation on regional and global scale.
Almaty, 28 October 1996.
President of the Islamic

Republic of Pakistan. Republic of Kazakstan.
Sd.!xxxx Sd.! x x x x
(Farooq Ahmad Khan Leghari) (Nursultan Nazarbaev)
President of the
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, November 1996, pp. 252-254.
R EPORT ON V ISIT OF T HE F OREIGN M INISTER ,

M R . G OHAR A YUB K HAN TO C ENTRAL A SIAN R EPUBLICS
FROM 19-20 J UNE , 1997
The Foreign Minister, Mr. Gohar Ayub Khan paid a three-day (19 -21 June)
visit to three Central Asian Republics Tajkistan. Kazakstan and Uzbekistan as
part of Pakistan’s consultations with neighboring countries to host an intra -
Afghan meeting.
He discussed the latest Afghan situation with the officials of these
Central Asian Republics. The proposed conference, the dates for which are yet
to be fixed, will be attended by five immediate neighbors of Afghanistan -
Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The United States
and Russia will attend the proposed moot as observers. Turkmenistan has
already okayed the Pakistani proposal.
The Foreign Minister also briefed the CARs officials on the rationale
behind Pakistan’s decision to recognize the Taliban government in
Afghanistan.
Visit to Kazakstan
The Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Gohar Ayub Khan, visited Almaty from
18-19 June 1997. During his visit he held talks with the Foreign Minister of
Kazakstan Mr. Kazhegeldin.
During the talks both sides reviewed the progress of bilateral relations
with particular emphasis on the road link through the Karakorum Highway
and the proposed oil and gas pipelines. It was agreed to intensify efforts to
overcome the administrative and technical problems for expeditious
implementation of the Quadripartite Agreement on road transport so that the
route would be effectively utilized. Both sides also noted that peace in
Afghanistan was a prerequisite for development of the proposed infrastructure
projects.
Both sides agreed on the necessity of an intra-Afghan dialogue, under
the UN auspices in order to achieve national reconciliation and restore peace
and security to Afghanistan. The Foreign Minister briefed the Kazak
authorities on the efforts Pakistan was making in this regard both
internationally and within Afghanistan.
36 IPRI Factfile
Visit to Tajikistan
The Foreign Minister of Pakistan visited Tajikistan from 19-20 June, 997. He
had detailed meetings with President Emomali Rahmonov and oreign Minister
Mr. Talbak Nazarov.
The meetings covered bilateral relations and the evolving situation in
he region Both sides agreed that further steps should be taken to strengthen
already cordial relations between the two countries. It was agreed that there
should be regular consultations between Pakistan and Tajikistan on the
situation in Afghanistan. ln this regard, Tajikistan’s decision to participate in
the proposed Conference of the Afghan parties and neighboring countries
being organized under UN auspices is an important step in this direction.
Pakistan welcomes the process of political reconciliation between the
Tajik government and opposition and fully supports the latest agreements
about National Reconciliation Commission. Pakistan has, therefore, agreed to
be a guarantor state as per General Agreement on Establishment of Peace and
National Accord in Tajikistan.
Both sides agreed that solution of Afghan problem through an intra-
Afghan dialogue should be pursued and the proposed conference of the
Afghan parties and neighboring countries under UN auspices in Pakistan
would provide an opportunity to bring about lasting peace in Afghanistan.
Visit to Uzbekistan
Foreign Minister Gohar Ayub Khan arrived in Tashkent on June 20, 1997.
The Foreign Minister held talks with Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz
Kamilov. The talks focused on bilateral, regional and international issues. The
two Foreign Ministers reviewed the situation in Afghanistan with particular
reference to Pakistan’s proposal to convene a Conference under UN auspices
on Afghanistan. Foreign Minister Gohar Ayub Khan reiterated Pakistan’s
commitment to unity and territorial integrity of Afghanistan and urged the
need for an intra-Afghan dialogue among all the Afghan parties in order to
achieve national reconciliation. He said durable peace in Afghanistan was the
need of the hour so that the vital road and rail links and the oil and gas
pipeline projects are launched.
Foreign Minister Gohar Ayub expressed satisfaction over the growing
bilateral ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. These relations were rooted in
the past and are a reminder of our strong cultural affinity and a shared history,
he said. The Foreign Minister stated that his visit to Uzbekistan was
reaffirmation of Pakistan’s desire to further promote these ties, particularly in
economic, commercial and cultural fields.
Foreign Minister Kamilov said that Uzbekistan and Pakistan shared a
common outlook on promoting their bilateral ties. These relations had been
reinforced through exchange of high level visits. Expressing concern over the
situation in Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Kamilov called for accelerating

international efforts to bring about peace in Afghanistan. He expressed
support for a Conference on Afghanistan under the UN auspices. with the
participation of all the Afghan groups and the neighboring countries of
Afghanistan.
Press Conference
On arrival in Islamabad on completion of his visit to three Central Asian
Republics, the Foreign Minister said. “The purpose of my visit to the three
countries has been achieved”.
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan have supported Pakistan’s
initiative to convene an international conference on Afghanistan under the UN
auspices for promoting intra-Afghan dialogue for the establishment of a broad
based government there.
The details about the conference were being worked out. However,
the date had not been fixed so far, Gohar said. China, Iran, Turkmenistan and
the United States, he said, already expressed their support to the proposed
conference. He hoped that the Russian Federation would also favor it.
I will leave for Moscow on July 7 to get support of the Russian
Federation for the conference on Afghanistan. The US and the Russian
Federation will participate in the conference as observers and were included to
ensure the implementation of the accord if reached among the Afghan
factions, he added.
“We don’t want to fail in our endeavor under the UN auspices” said
the foreign minister. Many such conferences in the past, he said, did not
succeed as these were not attended by all Afghan groups. Pakistan, he said,
was the most affected country by Afghanistan crisis as 1.5 million refugees
were still living in its territory….
To a question, the foreign minister said, the three countries were keen
to strengthen their road and rail links with Pakistan as it would give them the
shortest passage to have access to sea. He said, they wanted to utilize the
Karakoram highway and similarly. Uzbekistan and Tajikistan were desirous to
use the proposed oil pipeline from Turkmenistan to Pakistan for their exports.
Even the deputy foreign minister of the Russian Federation, during
his recent visit to Pakistan had expressed his country’s interest in the said
pipeline, he added.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. VI, Issue 7, July 1997, pp. 119-123.
38 IPRI Factfile
R EPORT ON V ISIT OF P RIME M INISTER M UHAMMAD N AWAZ

S HARIF TO T URKMENISTAN ON O CTOBER 17, 1997
On October 17, 1997 Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif flew into Ashqabad for a
day long visit to Turkmenistan and held talks with President Saparmurat
Niazov on bilateral relations and regional situation.
Kashmir and Afghanistan figured prominently during talks which
lasted more than an hour. Both the leaders discussed the pace of economic
cooperation, trade and investment in each other’s country.
On the bilateral plane, both agreed to give the highest priority to the
implementation of the gas and oil pipeline projects which will link
Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
They reviewed the progress already made on these projects with a
view to their early implementation. The Prime Minister briefed the President
on Pakistan’s talks with India in the context of the urgent need to help resolve
the Kashmir issue.
The Prime Minister and the President also had an in depth discussion
on Afghanistan and agreed that both countries had a common position on
trying to help the UN peace process.
After the detailed discussion between the two leaders, President
Niyazov hosted a lunch in honour of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. After
lunch the President showed the Prime Minister around the grounds of the
Feroza Guest House Palace including the horse farm housing the world
famous Akhal teke horses which are considered the origin of the modern
thoroughbred horses.
Chairman Turkemanistan Parliament Sahat Muraday, Foreign Minister
Boris Shihmuradav, Minister for Oil and Gas Batir Sartaev and Minister for
Trade and Economic Affairs Rejep Saparov assisted President Niazov during
talks.
Premier Nawaz Sharif was assisted by Foreign Minister Gohar Ayub
Khan, NWFP Chief Minister Mehtab Ahmed Khan and Pakistan’s
Ambassador to Turkemenistan Tariq Usman Haider.
On his arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly received at the airport
by the Speaker of the Turkmen Mejlis, Sakhat Muradov and the top Turkmen
Government leadership. The primary purpose of the Prime Minister’s visit was
to enquire the health of his very close friend, President, Saparamurat Niyazov,
who recently had a heart bypass operation. This is the third visit of the Prime
Minister to Turkmenistan.,
President Niyazov expressed his great happiness at this visit by the
Prime Minister. Since his operation, this is the first time that he has received
any head of government.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVI, Issue 11, November 1997, pp. 116-117.
E CONOMIC C OOPERATION B ETWEEN P AKISTAN AND T HE

C ENTRAL A SIAN R EPUBLICS
With the dissolution of the Soviet Union and opening up of the
Central Asian Republics, the whole Geo-political scenario has changed. The
Central Asian Republics have more importance now, in the strategy of the
world, especially in Asia than any other region of the world.
Economically this region has bypassed the Middle East, for this region
has more oil than the entire Middle East. It contains some of the rarest metals
which are not found anywhere in the world. Its land is among the most
productive agricultural lands in the world.
All the Western countries are now rushing in to exploit the resources
of Central Asia, and to set up joint ventures. As the cold war has ended,
economic warfare has now taken its place. There are no super powers in the
field, nor any buffer zones left.
Before we discuss Pakistan's policy regarding Central Asia, we have to
consider certain factors. They are as follow:
1. The Central Asian republics are still tied to the other Republics of
the defunct Soviet Union, and there is no question of any republic breaking up
in the future.
2. The system they had during the communist period is still intact, and
the communist bureaucracy, the KGB, the Soviet Army, and their nuclear
arsenals are all intact.
3. The Central Asian Republics have a 100% literacy rate; they are
secular, and are closely tied to the economy of the other Republics in the
former Soviet Union, and they have a very strong industrial base. What they
need at the moment is modern technology, for which they are looking towards
the West, rather than the South and for their government structure their
model is secular Turkey rather than Iran, Pakistan or Saudi Arabia.
Each president of the Central Asian Republics heads a country whose
economy is still fully intertwined with those of its neighbours. Only the
U.S.S.R. has collapsed. Its inter-regional economic links, though damaged, still
remain. Southern Kazakhstan still gets its electricity from Kyrgyzstan, while
northern Kazakhstan helps service Siberia's energy grid. Turkemenistan still
sends part of its oil to Russia to be made into jet fuel, but it processes Siberian
oil in its own refineries. While each new nation continues to depend on its
neighbours' basic inputs - fuel, energy and raw materials - the coordinating
structures that regulate such commerce have shrunk or have entirely
disappeared.
The first-order challenge now facing the states of Central Asia,
therefore, is to emerge from political obscurity and economic isolation.
Nationhood has been reluctantly accepted. It has carried with it enormous
40 IPRI Factfile
burdens - mostly economic - for which none of the region's leaders could have
been prepared and which even the most able have consistently tried to avoid.
As head of a republic with several thousand miles of common border
with Russia and whose population is almost evenly divided between Kazakhs
and Slavs, Nazarbaev was anxious to minimize a potential split between
Kazakhstan and Russia. Then, as now, his position has been that Kazakhstan
is unique - a link between Central Asia and Russia - and its strategic role would
be enhanced if the union preserved.
Central Asia's leaders were also aware that, although each republic was
named for a local nationality, none was a national homeland. The Kirghiz,
Uzbeks and Tajiks all have border claims on one another - and large irredentist
populations on which to base them - as do Uzbeks, Turkmen and Kazakhs.
Stalin's map-making skills were sufficient to ensure that no Soviet republic
would have an easy transition to nation-statehood. There is no historically
recognized border between Russia and Ukraine, certainly none between
Armenia and Azerbaijan, and Russian migrants make up a far greater
percentage of the population in the three Baltic republics than they do
anywhere in Central Asia, other than Kazakhstan.
There is, however, one striking difference between those cases and the
republics of Central Asia. The popular movements for independence that
paralyzed the communist-led governments of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia in
the late 1980s, then Moldavia, Armenia, Georgia and finally Azerbaijan and
Ukraine in the early 1990s, did not exist in Central Asia prior to the August
coup.
Given the intertwined nature of the party, local economy and
traditional society, these republics communist elites can fall only when
attacked from within. That was precisely what happened in Kyrgyzstan and
Tajikistan.
In Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan the communists, now
renamed socialists, democrats and national democrats, pressed for
independence, with only minimal public support. It was rumored that support
for Uzbekistan's independence bill was so lukewarm, in fact, that President
Karimov had to make a formal motion to mark its passage with applause.
Although the Communist Party technically no longer existed, most Uzbekistan
legislators voted for independence simply to tow the party line. For some the
vote was an expression of support for the goal of eventual independence. But
few, if any, who gathered in that Tashkent hall believed that Uzbekistan had
succeeded from the U.S.S.R. by virtue of its own legislation.
Uzbekistan's leaders were using independence as a synonym for full
economic autonomy. With substantial shortfalls in Russian deliveries of grain,
wood, construction materials and oil, President Karimov was looking for new
legal grounds to deny Russia the cotton and gold that Uzbekistan was required
to supply U.S.S.R. enterprises. The logic behind the independence decree of

Turkmenistan - rich in oil and natural gas -was similar.
Thus even before the collapse of USSR central structures the
republics had received a degree of economic autonomy. They had been given
the right to negotiate directly with foreign governments and companies,
provided that plans were deposited with central banking institutions. The
Republics could also invite foreign banks in - as Kazakhstan did with Saudi
lenders in 1990. But they could not use those banks as repositories for foreign
earnings. Moscow still owned the natural resources and finished goods that the
republics produced, and so the earnings went to the centre.
None of the Central Asian republics yet has complete control of her
economy. To some degree this is the product of confusion over the purpose
of the Commonwealth itself - whether it is designed to be a coordinating body
between the republics or a device for preserving an integrated economic zone
on the territory of the former U.S.S.R. Adding to that confusion from the
outset was the nature of Russia's relationship to the CIS - whether it was an
equal partner in the union, first among equals or the inheritor of the U.S.S.R.
Russia's leadership has variously played each of those roles; Russian
President Boris Yeltsin was quick to take control of the U.S.S.R's foreign
holdings and ministries and to use economic blackmail to press republics to
accept Russia as the centre of a single financial system and currency zone.
When CIS republican presidents gather, Yeltsin makes symbolic gestures to
reinforce the image that all are on an equal footing. Yet everyone knows that
Yeltsin does not treat them as equals.
Though each president must now defend the national interests of his
republic, all are expected to allow Russia's interests to take precedence over
their own. This has been a particular problem in a number of Central Asian
republics, where the leadership's limited foreign policy experience may have
made them appear pliable to economic pressure from Moscow. Central Asia's
leaders, however, have proven less malleable than expected. Rather than
ceding power back to Russia, Central Asian presidents have increasingly
sought foreign partners to help them develop their economics in ways that are
beneficial to their own republics but of little advantage to Russia.
Turkmenistan, for example, which produces just over ten percent of
all natural gas exported by the former USSR temporarily shut down foreign
gas shipments in early 1992, the Russian successor to the USSR Ministry of Oil
and Gas was not passing on hard-currency earnings to a now independent and
sovereign Turkmenistan, which still shipped all its oil and gas through Russia.
Turkmenistan is obviously still sensitive to Russian pressure. In April 1992
Moscow got Turkmenistan to cut off gas shipments to Azerbaijan, and some
see the Turkmen decision to increase by more than ten fold the price for
natural gas shipments to Ukraine as a concession to Russia as well.
42 IPRI Factfile
At the same time Turkmen president Saparmurad Niazov is pursuing

a strategy independent of Russia, depositing his 1992 oil profits in a New York
bank that has no ties with Russia or the former U.S.S.R. Moreover he has
listened with great interest to the propositions of neighbouring Iran. Since
1990 the two states have signed nine bilateral agreements containing plans for
joint development of some of Turkmenistan's oil and gas reserves, including
construction of a pipeline across Iran to ship gas to Turkey, Pakistan and parts
of Iran.
Moscow has also held Kazakhstan to tighter definition of shared
mutual self-interest than the region's other republics. When Kazakhstan carved
out a degree of financial autonomy for itself in December 1991, Russia began
to boycott the republic. A month later, with many of Kazkhstan's key
industries standing idle, Nazarbaev caved in. The two neighbouring republics
signed an agreement calling for full coordination of their financial and trade
policies. Goods priced in rubles were guaranteed free movement between the
two republics, but each would pay in hard currency for transit shipments.
While seemingly equitable, the agreement worked to Russia's advantage;
Kazakhstan sends a much larger percentage of its transit goods across Russia
than vice verse. The financial agreement also puts Kazakhstan under
enormous pressure to join Russia in a convertible rouble. Given Kazakhstan's
greater isolation and generally low standard of living, the agreement could lead
to disproportionate hardship.
Not withstanding the ambiguous status of former Soviet forces in the
region, Russia's presence in Central Asia is constant. Even with the formation
of national armies, Russia will remain an over-shadowing military and
economic power. And for at least the immediate future Russia will also remain
Central Asia's main link with the outside world.
The problem of physical, rather than diplomatic, isolation is even
more serious. These new states are still fully dependent on the old Moscow
based USSR transportation and communication grids which control
international mail, telephone and telegraph links and most international travel.
Those nearby states that help the Central Asian republics emerge from that
physical isolation will eventually enjoy a foreign policy advantage. A number of
neighbouring states realize this fact and are seeking to capitalize on new
opportunities.
There is also the promise of new international rail connections
through Iran. That project has the full support of all five Central Asian
republics; it will create a direct rail link that stretches from Urumchi to Ankara.
Ultimately the accessibility of an expanded Central Asian market depends on a
resolution with Russia of questions of railway ownership and maintenance.
The nationalization of rail and rolling stock has begun throughout the region
and has progressed furthest in Turkmenistan, in large part to avoid any
ownership ambiguity of the planned rail-road to Iran.
Central Asia's physical isolation and continued access mainly through

Russia highlights an even greater problem. The international community has
formally accepted the independence of the Central Asian republics - granting
them membership in the United Nations and even honorary status in Europe
through participation in the Conference on Security and Cooperation in
Europe and the NATO advisory council. Yet there is no interest in
championing the cause of Central Asia, lest Russia be offended. This is true of
Muslim and Western states alike. Despite its crippled economy Russia is still
regarded as a greater power. For many states it is a potential arms broker of
considerable importance. For others Russia is a vast market ripe for
development - potentially far larger than the whole of Central Asia.
Kyrgyzstan is also sensitive to the Islamic state issue, especially since
president Akaev enjoys strong support from a large Russian minority.
Kyrgyzstan joined the Economic Co-ordination Council, but Akaev would not
permit the republic to enter the Islamic Conference Organization, precisely
because its membership was explicitly restricted to Muslim states.
Jews in Central Asia are particularly concerned. If these republics
become Muslim states, Jews fear, they will also turn anti-Israel and, by
extension, anti - Jewish. Contrary to such fears, however, the new Central
Asian states, seem eager to pursue close ties with Israel. Israel has open its
second CIS embassy in Tashkent, and plans full diplomatic representation
throughout the region. Uzbekistan is interested in Israel's drip - irrigation
technology and hopes to encourage investment by those Jews who have left
the republic to live in Israel. Returning Jews, however, have complained that
they are sometimes roughed up by nationalist Uzbek youths.
Regional cooperation in Central Asia was always more ideal than real.
But the post-Soviet diplomatic strategies of the Central Asian leaders have
pushed their republics even further apart. When Central Asian leaders meet
among themselves, as they did in April 1992 in Bishkek, they find little of
substance on which to agree. Under Soviet rule the leaders competed for
Moscow's favour. Now they are competing for investment from a far greater
pool, and each is striving to define the uniqueness of his republic.
Nabiev decided to emphasize a Persian model in Tajikistan. As head
of a republic whose main export is electricity - and which sometimes lacks
even that - Nabviev could only play the cards in hand. Iran has provided
Tajikistan with financial infra-structure, air links and satellite communications,
as well as text-books written in Persian script. Iran says it has no interest in
missionary work among Tajikistan's overwhelmingly Sunni Muslim population.
As proof, Iran is exporting Persian soap operas for local consumption rather
than the religious broadcasting that dominates its own television. But the
presence of religious activists in the Tajik government could make Iran a more
attractive ideological model, especially if the new regime in neighbouring
northern Afghanistan proves to be pro-Iranian as well.
44 IPRI Factfile
With the end of Cold War and super power rivalry, Pakistan's geo-
strategic location is no longer important to the U.S. or the West, Afghanistan
is no longer a buffer zone nor the Soviet Union a threat. What the world needs
now is a country having a stable government, plenty of natural resources,
economic or technological know-how, and Pakistan lacks in all.
The situation in the Central Asian Republics is presently quite fluid.
Each of the six countries has its own arms, ambitions and problems. They are
keeping their options open and assessing a wide variety of alternatives available
to them including creating an economic union of their own. They have no
inhibitions in dealing with nations diametrically opposed to each other.
Investments from USA and China are both welcome and visitors from Iran
and Israel are treated alike. Pakistan and India can both enter the Central Asian
market while opportunities for other nations to establish mutually beneficial
relations with these newly independent countries exist irrespective of their
religious or cultural affiliations. Pakistan, along with a host of other countries,
can help in the economic development of the Central Asian States during this
transition phase. Presently, however, Pakistan does not enjoy the advantages
which the other two Muslim neighbours have. Pakistan is not geographically
linked with them. Until peace and stability returns to Afghanistan Islamabad
cannot reach out meaningfully to its northern neighbours.
These countries urgently need foreign exchange and appropriate
technology which is hard to come by in Pakistan. Competition with Iran and
Turkey and of course with the industrialize world in assisting the Central Asian
States will not be easy. Pakistan has, however, done well in establishing
diplomatic relations with most of these countries. The Quetta plan of Action,
which was formulated by ten ECO members, if implemented would go a long
way in achieving the desired co-operation. But dreams will only come true if
Pakistan plays its cards well,
1. Pakistan must put its own house in order. The uncertain political
uture is least conducive to entering into long term arrangements
with these countries.
2. Every effort must be made to get the Afghan leaders to settle
their differences so that a secure route to Central Asian can be
assured.
3. A check must be exercised on those political parties whose
religious activities run counter to the policies of the Muslim
Republics.
4. Emphasis must be on establishing mutually beneficial economic
relations only.
5. Russian susceptibilities must be kept in mind.
6. Healthy competition with Turkey and Iran must not be allowed to
end up in rivalry.
7. In addition to state to state relations greater people to people

contacts would prove useful.
8. Building of infrastructure on the Pakistan side must be expedited
to give an outlet to the sea to the land locked Central Asian States.
The ingredients which Pakistan puts into the melting pot of Central
Asia must be such that it results in shaping a mutually beneficial relationship.
Any input which detracts from this aim must be nipped in the bud. The
privatization of foreign policy must not be allowed, was an apt remark by a
well known columnist.
Dr Azmat Hayat Khan
<http://www.defencejournal.com/may98/economic1.htm>
E XCERPTS F ROM A P RESS C ONFERENCE BY T HE M INISTER

OF S TATE FOR F OREIGN A FFAIRS S IDDIQUE K HAN K ANJU
ON R ETURN F ROM A V ISIT TO C ENTRAL A SIAN S TATES
Islamabad: 6 November 1998.
On his return from a visit to the Central Asian States, the Minister of State for
Foreign Affairs Saddique Khan Kanju said: Pakistan and Turkmenistan have
decided to send a Joint Mission to Afghanistan as part of the international
initiatives to bring about durable peace to the wortorn country. He told
reporters that the Joint Mission’s visit to Afghanistan will be in
complementarity to the UN and OIC missions and exercise.
The Minister visited Uzbekistan, Kyrgistan, Kazakistan, Tajikistan and
Turkmenistan on the specific instructions of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to
discuss the evolving situation in Afghanistan for bringing sustainable peace to
this war-ravaged country.
Responding to a question if the Joint Mission will like to visit Iran the
Minister said. “Definitely, we are already in touch with Tehran which is a
friendly and a brotherly country and a very important member of the Six Plus
Two.”
About the Schedule of the Joint Mission he said, we initially will go
and start off with Taliban. Whom ever we have to meet in Afghanistan will be
after we visit Taliban.
Responding to a question, the Minister said, Pakistan is the only
country which suffered most from the Afghan conflict. “We are the people for
whom peace in Afghanistan is very important and vital.”
He described his discussions with his counterparts in the CARs as
very “fruitful and constructive”, which he said, were within the framework of
the UN and the OIC missions which recently visited the region.
46 IPRI Factfile
The Minister to a question said the talks were based on the Six plus
Two Conference held in Washington recently. “This is the promotion of Six
Plus Two and this all has to be done within its framework where all the
concerned countries in the Six Plus Two adhered to the points of common
understanding”. “There is a realization of taking a very realistic view of the
around situation in Afghanistan by all the colleague whom I met during the
visit,” he said and expressed the hope there would be interaction and
engagements to the ground realities by the CARs representatives.
“The engagement on the individual basis of these countries will Insha
Allah take place collectively as the Six Plus Two will also be trying to carry it
forward.” He dispelled the impression, while responding to a question, about
any differences between Pakistan and Iran.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXV, Issue 11-12, pp. 70-71, Nov-Dec 1998
R EPORT ON A C ALL ON T HE P RIME M INISTER BY T HE

V ISITING F OREIGN M INISTER OF T URKMENISTAN
Islamabad: 27 January 1999.
Talking to the visiting Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Boris Shikhmuradov,

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called for immediate restoration of durable peace
in Afghanistan saying it will pave way for the promotion of enormous
potential for commercial and economic cooperation between Pakistan and
Turkmenistan.
He expressed satisfaction at the growing cooperation between
Pakistan and Turkmenistan adding that the countries should try to further
expand trade airlinks people to people contacts and cultural exchange.
Boris Shikhmuradov was accompanied by a delegation of senior
Turkmen officials He conveyed the fraternal greetings and good wishes of
President Niazov which were warmly reciprocated by the Prime Minister.
Shikhmuradov agreed with the Prime Minister that Pakistan and
Turkemenistan shared affinities which provided a sound basis for further
enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries He held
out the assurance that his country would work closely with Pakistan for
promoting the Afghan peace process. He conveyed his gratitude to the Prime
Minister for sparing time to receive him.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVI, Issue 1, p. 159, Jan 1999
E XCERPTS F ROM A P RESS B RIEFING BY F OREIGN M INISTER

OF T URKMENISTAN ON C OMPLETION OF H IS T WO D AY
(26-27 J ANUARY ) V ISIT TO P AKISTAN
Islamabad: 27 January 1999.
Talking to a group of journalists at PAF Base Chaklala on the conclusion of

his visit, Turkmenistan’s foreign minister Boris Shikhmuradov announced that
the gas pipeline project from his country to Pakistan through Afghanistan
would be launched within 6 weeks and that the parties have moved all related
irritants.
He said his talks with ruling Taliban militia in war-battered
Afghanistan over the project were satisfactory. All the three parties
Turkmenistan, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to expedite the work
concerning the pipeline project, he announced. All the irritants in the context
the project have been overcome, he added.
He said the Pak-Turkmenistan Joint Commission comprising
Technical experts was meeting in next two weeks to thrash out the details of
the pipeline project. On the occasion Foreign Minister Sartaj Aziz was also
present.
About 1,440 km gas pipeline project would cost $1.9 billion to serve
sub-continent’s fastest-growing energy market in the world. The US company
Unocal pulled out of the consortium funding the project in the take of
Washington’s cruise missile attacks against suspected training camps in
Afghanistan of anti-America Saudi dissident Osama bin Laden. Unocal was
holding 46 percent share in the pipeline consortium linking Turkmenistan to
Multan with an option of supplying the gas to India’s vast markets at a later
stage.
Replying to a questions from the reporters Shikhmuradov made it
clear that “the project is very much on and many international companies are
interested to construct the same.” He added that hectic technical meetings are
expected to take place in Islamabad and Ashgabad, Turkmenistan as ground
work before kicking off the project’s construction.
“Besides technical experts from Pakistan and Turkmenistan many
international experts are also pooling their expertise in the technical call
meetings of the project.” The minister however, refused to give details of
international companies intend to construct the pipeline.
The Turkmenistan pipeline would be entering Balochistan, Pakistan
through Western Afghanistan and would go upto Multan. “We will be in the
position to tell you details of the project after six weeks,” the Turkmenistan
minister said.
Meanwhile talking on the Afghanistan, he said that his country fully
48 IPRI Factfile
supported 6+2 talks formula and has full understanding with Pakistan and Iran
to see peaceful and stable Afghanistan, but recognizes all the habitants of the
country as Afghans,” the minister said. He stressed that representative
government in Afghanistan is the only solution of the crises “besides
discouraging war between the rival Afghans.”
“I hope that by the end of this year peace would be restored in
Afghanistan,” he said. He said that Taliban government agreed with
Turkmenistan to kick off joint economic ventures. “We are neighbours and
most of our interests are common and in coming days we (Turkmenistan -
Afghanistan) would be moving together to take our share in the world
market,” said the minister.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVI, Issue 1, pp. 160-161, Jan 1999

V ISITING F OREIGN M INISTER OF K AZAKHSTAN ,
M R . K ASYMZHOMART T OKAEV
Islamabad: 5 March 1999.
The Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Mr. Kasymzhomart Tokaev, called on

the prime Minister, Mr. Nawaz Sharif, this afternoon (5 March). He conveyed
the cordial greetings and good wishes of President Nursultan Nazarbaev which
were warmly reciprocated. The Prime Minister also conveyed his warmest
felicitations to President Nazarbaev on his re-election as the President of
Kazakhstan.
The Prime Minister recalled his visit to Almaty in May last year to
attend the ECO Summit during which he had extensive discussion with the
Kazakh President on ways to further expand bilateral cooperation between the
two countries particularly in the economic and commercial fields. He
expressed the hope that President Nazarbaev would be able to avail of his
earlier invitation to visit Pakistan soon on mutually convenient dates.
Foreign Minister Tokaev handed over a letter from President
Nazarbaev to the Prime Minister. He said that his country attached the highest
of importance to its relations with Pakistan and expressed confidence that
these ties would be further strengthened in the coming years. The anticipated
opening of the Karakorum Highway in May under the Quadrilateral
Agreement of Traffic in Transit would substantially facilitate economic and
commercial interaction between Pakistan and Kazahkstan.
The prime Minister underscored the need for the early restoration of
durable peace in Afghanistan as that would enable Pakistan and Kazakhstan to
develop bilateral cooperation to its fullest potential. The entire region would
benefit through the opening of trade routes, oil and gas pipelines,
telecommunication links and people contacts.

The Kazakh Foreign Minister held out the assurance that his country
would work closely with Pakistan for promoting the Afghan peace process. He
expressed his deepest gratitude to the Prime Minister for receiving him.
The Foreign Minister Mr. Sartaj Aziz, the Minister of State for
Foreign Affairs, Mr. Siddique Khan Kanju and the Foreign Secretary, Mr.
Shamshad Ahmad were also present at the meeting.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVI, Issue 2, p.129, Feb. 1999
R EPORT ON P AKISTAN -K AZAKHSTAN M INISTERIAL L EVEL

T ALKS FOR E NHANCING E CONOMIC C OOPERATION
Islamabad: 5 March 1999.
The Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Mr. Kasymzhomart Tokaev, arrived in

Islamabad this morning on the invitation of the Foreign Minister, Mr. Sartaj
Aziz, for a two-day visit to Pakistan. Foreign Minister Tokaev is accompanied
by high level delegation from the concerned government departments of the
Kayak government.
The visit of the Kazak Foreign Minister signifies the growing
interaction between Pakistan and the Central Asian Republics. The Minister of
State for Foreign Affairs, Mr Siddique Khan Kanju, paid Afghanistan-related
visits to the five Central Asian Republics in November last year. Since then the
Uzbek, Tajik and Turkmen Foreign Ministers have visited Pakistan in quick
succession of each other to carry forward the discussions.
Formal talks were held this afternoon in a warm and cordial
atmosphere between the two Foreign Ministers. The discussions covered the
entire range of bilateral matters and regional issues of mutual concern,
particularly Afghanistan.
The Pakistan delegation included the Minister of State for Foreign
Affairs, Mr. Siddique Khan Kanju, the Foreign Secretary, Mr. Shamshad
Ahmad and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Kazak
Foreign Minister was assisted by the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, as well as
high ranking officials from the relevant government departments of
Kazakhstan.
The two Foreign Ministers noted that with the opening of the
Karakorum highway in May under the Quadrilateral Agreement of Traffic in
Transit, the shortest possible route to the sea would be available to
Kazakhstan. This would also give an impetus to the augmentation of bilateral
trade between the two countries.
It was decided that the two sides would enhance bilateral cooperation
in multiple areas including banking, aviation, economic and commercial
50 IPRI Factfile
interaction, people-to-people contact and culture. It was agreed that the fourth
session of the joint ministerial commission between the two countries would
convene shortly in Astana.
The two Foreign Ministers agreed on the need for restoring durable
peace and stability in Afghanistan. This would unlock the enormous potential
or economic and commercial cooperation between Pakistan and Central Asian
region. The two sides emphasized the need to recognize the ground realities in
Afghanistan and expressed the hope that a multiethnic dispensation would
emerge through an indigenous Afghan process.
The Kazakh Foreign Minister also visited Lahore where he held
further talks on ways to expand Pakistan-Kazakhstan cooperation.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVI, Issue 2, pp. 146-147, Feb. 1999
R EPORT ON A C ALL ON T HE F OREIGN M INISTER BY T HE

M INISTER OF T URKMENISTAN M R S ARDJEV B ATIR
Islamabad : 29 April 1999.
Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan Mr. Sardjaev Batir accompanied by

the Oil Minister Mr. Arazov Redjepbay called on Mr. Sartaj Aziz Minister of
Pakistan. During their meeting they discussed, at length, present position of
the proposed gas pipeline project from the Turkmenistan which will pass
through Afghanistan. Both sides-emphasised the importance of this project
and their commitment to its implementation at the earliest
Other possible areas of cooperation including a proposed power
transmission line, road and railway links between Pakistan and Turkmenistan
were also discussed during the meeting. Foreign- Minister Mr. Sartaj Aziz
expressed the hope that the meeting between Oil Ministers of Pakistan,
Turkmenistan and Afghanistan will give new impetus to the gas pipeline
project and also pave the way for cooperation in other areas.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVI, Issue 3, p. 171, March 1999

V ISITING F OREIGN M INISTER OF U ZBEKISTAN
Islamabad: 1 June 1999.
The Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Abdulaziz Kamilov, called on Minister

Nawaz Sharif.
He was accompanied by the Uzbek Ambassador and senior officials
from the Foreign Ministry of Uzbekistan.
Foreign Minister Kamilov conveyed the cordial greetings and good

wishes of President Islam Karimov to the Prime Minister which was warmly
reciprocated. He also handed over a letter to the Prime Minister from the k
President on the Afghanistan issue.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif stressed the importance of giving
substance to the excellent relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan through
enhanced economic and commercial cooperation.
He realization that the two countries should fully exploit the
enormous potential that exists through the establishment of oil and gas
pipelines, trade routes, communication networks as well as transport and road
links.
In fact, the entire region could be transformed to one of economic
vibrance, self-sustained growth and prosperity, for which it was essential that
durable peace should return to Afghanistan, he said.
The Prime Minister underscored the paramount importance of the
countries ordering Afghanistan to concert their efforts to promote the Afghan
peace process. He stressed the need for Pakistan and Uzbekistan to work
closely to facilitate the realization of this objective
Foreign Minister Sartaj Aziz, Minister of State Siddiqu Khan Kanju,
Foreign Secretary Shamshad Ahamd Khan and the Foreign Ministry Officials
were also present during the meeting.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVI, Issue 4-6, p. 93, Jan-June 1999
T EXT OF THE C OMMUNIQUÉ I SSUED A FTER THE V ISIT OF T HE

C HIEF E XECUTIVE TO T URKMENISTAN FROM
15-16 M AY 2000
Ashgabat: 16 May 2000
The Chief Executive of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan General Pervez

Musharraff paid a visit to Ashgabat on May 15-16, 2000. During the course of
his talks with the President of Turkemenistan Saparmurat Turkmenbashi, the
two leaders discussed important aspects of bilateral relations, prospects for
trade, economic and humanitarian exchanges, regional and international
problems and issues of mutual concern. The leaders of Turkemenistan and
Pakistan agreed that Turkmen - Pakistan relations fully reflect the national
interests of the people of Turkemenistan and Pakistan, they are not affected by
political changes and not directed against any third country.
The leaders of Turkmenistan and Pakistan informed each other about
the political and socio-economic developments in their countries. The Chief
Executive of Pakistan acknowledged the progress achieved by Turkemenistan
since its independence and highly appreciated its foreign policy based on
52 IPRI Factfile
principles of permanent neutrality. The President of Turkemenistan expressed

satisfaction at the level of mutual understanding with Pakistan, a state which
occupies an important position in global and regional geopolitics. He
expressed the confidence that the people of Pakistan would be able to
overcome the current economic and political difficulties and achieve stability
and prosperity.
President Saparmurat Turkmenbashi and General Pervez Musharraf
expressed satisfaction at he progress and sustainable growth of bilateral
relations in various fields during the last decade of the 20th century and noted
their vast potential in the 21st century.
This partnership is founded on common historical roots, rich cultural
heritage, shared spiritual relationship and mutual feelings of friendship
between the people of two countries. This commonalties provide a sound
basis for steady development of future bilateral relations in the interests of the
people of the two countries and peace and stability of the region. In this
context the two leaders discussed programmes of regional cooperation, future
prospects of ECO and the participation of two counties in other international
organizations.
Practical steps for further development of trade and economic
cooperation also came under discussion. Emphasis was laid on long term
cooperation in the petroleum and power sectors and the project for the laying
down of gas pipeline from Turkmenistan to South Asia passing through
Afghanistan. Such projects can contribute significantly to, the development of
the regional infrastructure and strengthening the security and stability in
Central and South Asia.
Both sides underscored the importance of peaceful resolution of all
existing disputes and conflicts in the region including Kashmir in accordance
with the principles of UN Charter and taking into account the United Nations’
Security Council resolutions. The Chief Executive of Pakistan General Pervez
Musharraff informed President Saparmurat Turkmenbashi about the efforts of
his Government to normalize Pakistan-India relations. Turkmenbashi on his
part expressed the confidence that the wisdom and experience of the two great
Asian nations shall facilitate an early achievement of this objective. Both sides
condemned all forms and manifestations of terrorism.
Considerable attention was devoted to the subject of Settlement of the
Afghanistan problem. Leaders of the two States reiterated their resolve to
actively assist in finding ways for an early normalization of the situation in
Afghanistan, establishment of peace and restoration of the economy which has
suffered due to protracted war. In this context both parties discussed the latest
initiatives of the UN and Organization of Islamic Conference for finding a
solution to the Afghanistan issue. The Chief Executive of Paksitan highly
appreciated the policy of Turkmenistan regarding Afghanistan which is
distinguished by its consistent adherence to the principles and genuine desire
to help people of Afghanistan.

Within the framework of the visit of General Pervez Musharraff, the
official delegations of both sides held talks on concrete issues of the bilateral
partnership.
At the conclusion of the Visits the Chief Executive of Pakistan
expressed his gratitude to President Sapatmurat Turkemenbashi for the
hospitality which has been extended to him and his delegation and invited
him to visit Pakistan at his convenience. The invitation was gratefully accepted.
The exact date of the visit will be determined through diplomatic channels.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVII, Issue 3-4, pp. 288-90, March-April 2000
R EPORT ON V ISIT OF T HE C HIEF E XECUTIVE ,

G ENERAL P ERVEZ M USHARRAF TO C ENTRAL A SIA
FROM 6-7 N OVEMBER 2000
The Chief Executive General Pervez Musharraf who flew into Astana on
Monday for a two-day official visit held in-depth, cordial and wide-ranging
talks on bilateral and regional issues of common concern with Kazakhstan
President Nursultan Nazarbayev. Apart from the wide-ranging discussions on
bilateral and regional matters, the two leaders discussed trade and security
environments in the region and ways to strengthen it. Both leaders had
common views on these matter.
On way to Astana, the Chief Executive had a brief stopover at
Ashqabat airport with Turkmenistan President Saparmurat Niazoy and
discussed bilateral, economic and other matters of common concern with
special reference to Afghanistan.
Pakistan enjoys excellent relations with the Central Asian States ever
since their independence following Soviet Union’s dissolution. Pakistan has as
a matter of fact, gone a step further to promote its historic and traditional ties
with the countries of the Central Asian region and has always been willing to
extend any help necessary for their development. Pakistan’s relations with
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, which are based on common faith and shared
values and perceptions, have particularly remained warm and cordial
throughout. Their leaders have had regular exchange of views on the matters
of mutual interests and the Chief Executive’s visit to Astana and Ashqabat
represents Pakistan’s keen desire to further promote its ties with the people of
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. It also manifests Islamabad’s constant
endeavour to deepen its traditional and historic ties with the countries of the
Central Asian region.
The Chief Executive’s talks with President Niazov and President
Nazarbavev have been quite encouraging and will hopefully significantly
contribute towards the expansion of economic ties with them. As a matter of
54 IPRI Factfile
fact Pakistan always desired to maintain close political and economic ties with
the Central Asian region, but its domination by the defunct Soviet Union had
stood in its way. It is however, a matter of satisfaction that the successive
governments have pursued the policy to forge special relationship with the
regional countries, after the Soviet Union’s dissolution, as there are immense
potentials to mutual economic advantage.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVII, Issue 11-12, pp. 11-12, Nov-Dec 2000
T RANSCRIPT OF T HE J OINT P RESS C ONFERENCE BY T HE

F OREIGN M INISTERS OF P AKISTAN AND U ZBEKISTAN ON
25 J ANUARY 2001
Statement by the Foreign Minister of Pakistan

It gives me great pleasure to join His Excellency Abdulaziz Kamilov at press
conference.
All of us in Pakistan will join me in extending a particularly warm
welcome to Pakistan. For, he brings with him the fragrance of a land with
which the people of Pakistan have deep-rooted ties of history and culture. We
have a shared tradition in art and architecture, as well as strong spiritual bonds.
Imam Ismail Bukhari and Imam Tirmizi, compilers of the treasures
of Hadith, and Hazrat Bahauddin Naqshbandi are part of our memory as
much as they are of the Uzbek people. Emir Temur not only built an empire
but a grand civilization which is a source of pride also for people beyond the
territories of Uzbekistan. Astronomer-King Ulgh Beg’s discoveries benefited
sailors for centuries and helped advance scientific knowledge for benefit of
mankind.
Like his great ancestor, Zaheeruddin Babar founded not only an
empire but a new civilization. He brought with him not only soldiers and
administrators but also creative writers and artists, architects and tens, perhaps
hundreds of thousands of people who mixed and merged into the people of
our land. Forts and gardens mosques and mausoleums in various parts of
Pakistan testify to that heritage. Truly we can say that Uzbekistan is a cradle of
our culture and civilization.
I wish more of us were familiar with the poetry of Ali Sher Navoi,
whom Babar aspired to emulate, the historical novels of contemporary
Premqul Kadirov and Adil Yakubov, short stories by fiction writers, and
paintings by Changhez Ahmar. We would then be even more impressed and
inspired by the close cultural affinities between our nations.
Standing on the bank of Amu Darya in 1990 along with other
participants in the Imam Tirmizi Centenary celebrations, I looked across and
dreamed of a day when Afghanistan at peace would provide a bridge between
Pakistan and Central Asian Republics. Starting from Peshawar, travellers and
traders could reach Termez in a day and see sights, relish delicious fruits and
dishes, listen to music and meet people to discover and savour the
commonalties that link and bind our two peoples.
And that jolts one to lament the realities of today. Afghanistan,
devastated by Soviet intervention and internecine war, has become a barrier
instead of providing a bridge. Complexities of politics, confounded by
divergent interests and interpretations, and at times defying understanding,
cast a shadow on relations between neighbours.
Taking advantage of Foreign Minister Kamilov’s presence with us, I
want to assure him publicly, as I have done during our talks in the afternoon,
that Pakistan can never entertain even the notion of harming the security of
Uzbekistan. We respect the principle of noninterference in internal affairs. We
do not and will not allow any activities on our territory that the Government
of Uzbekistan considers prejudicial to its peace and security. We shall extend
unstinted cooperation in arresting and deporting terrorists and saboteurs. We
are prepared to join with Uzbekistan in great effort to ensue compliance with
laws and regulations regarding travel between the two countries, passports and
visas must be obligatory.
Peace in Afghanistan is the key to the realization of better
understanding and closer cooperation among he neighbours. To that end,
Pakistan has extended cooperation to the United Nations and the
Organization of lslamic.Conference. To same end, Pakistan is ready to work
with Uzbekistan in and outside the Six-Plus-Two forum The two of us and the
other member States of the Economic Cooperation Organization will reap
great gains from return of peace to fraternal Afghanistan.
Uzbekistan is a progressive country with many blessings. It has a
highly developed physical infrastructure of communications and education.
The excellence of scientific research in Uzbekistan is illustrated by success in
evolving varieties of cotton that are internationally prized for their quality With
nearly 100 percent literacy, the people of Uzbekistan are sophisticated, aware
that economic progress requires hard work, maintenance of peace and
harmony. They reject violence extremism in all its forms and manifestations
Our founding fathers envisioned Pakistan as a forward-looking,
modem Islamic State. As far back as the 19th century, Syed Ahmad Khan,
distressed by the political decline of Muslims in South Asia, urged them to
acquire knowledge in fields of science and technology which are indispensable
for achievement of progress and economic development. For the sake of our
renaissance, the aim of our Government is to translate the vision of Allama
Mohammad lqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah into reality.
Expansion of cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan will be
manifestly beneficial. Despite current obstacles we can enlarge and intensify
interaction. Air travel between Islamabad and Tashkent takes just 70 minutes.
56 IPRI Factfile
Excellency Kamilov’s visit has given us an opportunity to exchange

views on bilateral relations, and on the issues of common interest. We share a
desire for early establishment of peace in Afghanistan. I have informed him of
the fall-out of UNSC resolution 1333. Also I have apprised him of recent
developments in regard to Kashmir. Also I have assured him of our desire to
expand cooperation with Uzbekistan in all fields.
Statement by the Uzbek Foreign Minister

Your Excellency, the Foreign Minister, thank you very much first of all for the
invitation to visit lslamabad. Today, we have had very useful talks with H.E.
the Foreign Minister and the Interior Minister. We have also signed three
agreements between Uzbekistan and Pakistan; first is a Consular Agreement,
the second one is about Cooperation between Customs Services of the two
countries and the third is an Extradition Treaty. I think all the three
agreements signed today, together with all those reached previously between
the two countries, are very important to create a juridical base for our
cooperation.
We have also discussed with His Excellency the Foreign Minister our
bilateral relations and the regional situation, specially the situation in
Afghanistan. We have agreed to continue bilateral cooperation on this issue, as
well as our cooperation in the Six Plus Two forum. We want to have good
relations with Afghanistan as a neighbour and the fact remains that we never
have had problems with this country throughout our history. During the last
two decades, after the foreign invasion and the continuing civil war in
Afghanistan, the position, however, has unfortunately changed. We have our
well known position that the principle of non-interference into others’ internal
affairs be respected; there should be guarantees from both sides for security on
our common borders; and, of course, we don’t want Afghanistan to have
camps on its soil for elements from Central Asia, including Uzbekistan. I
would like to thank Mr. Minister once again for this invitation and would add
that His Excellency knows Central Asia, specially Uzbekistan very well; not
only the country, its history civilization and culture but also many famous
personalities of our history. I hope we will continue contacts in the near future
at all levels to strengthen the existing mutual cooperation between the two
countries.
Question-Answer Session
• When his comments were sought on recent UN sanctions against
Afghanistan and continued supply of arms to that war-torn
country, the Uzbek Foreign Minister said:
As a neighbour, we favour the implementation of the United
Nations decision. Many years ago there was an Uzbek initiative
for arms embargo against Afghanistan. This embargo needs to be

for whole of the country and should not be implemented
selectively in one part of the country or the other.
• Asked if he requested Pakistan for help in seeking Taliban’s
assistance to deal with the Uzbek opposition elements present in
Afghanistan, and if he could give the exact number of such
people, the Uzbek Foreign Minister said:
We discussed this problem and handed over a list. We are
cooperating in this field with each other and the agreement on
extradition signed today is very important in this regard. Of
course, there are some difficulties to find those elements from
this list but we hope that our friend Pakistan would try its level
best to find them out. So far as the number, I don’t remember
exactly. According to our old lists, they could be between 30 to 35
and the news appearing in a section of the foreign media, giving
the figures in thousands, is not believable. At the most they could
be 100-150, but in no case in thousands in Afghanistan, and some
of them are unfortunately in Tajikistan now.
• When his comments were sought on a proposed meeting of e
Afghan parties, at a time when the Taliban have denounced any
concern with the UN mediation, following the sanctions, the
Foreign Minister of Pakistan said:
Actually the efforts to convene that meeting are being made by
the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General.
Uzbekistan has been generous enough to offer hospitality, but on
the particular question you have asked, an answer or a comment
can be best made by the Special Representative of the Secretary
General of the United Nations.
Supplementing this reply, the Uzbek Foreign Minister observed:

We also think in Uzbekistan that the United Nations should play the
important role in this process, and it must not be dominated by one country,
big or small.
• Asked as to how the Taliban being the biggest partner could be
drawn into the process, the Uzbek Foreign Minister said:
We have participated in this process in the Six Plus Two forum.
We also held meetings with the Taliban and hopefully today we
would be meeting their representative in lslamabad. We, in
Uzbekistan, don’t agree with the ideology of the Taliban; but at
the same time we recognize them as a reality, controlling 90 to 95
percent of the Afghan territory. They should be involved in this
process; we should have dialogue with them without caring that
58 IPRI Factfile
we agree or disagree with them.

• To a question with regard to Pak-India relations and proposed of
visit the APHC delegation to Islamabad, the Uzbek Foreign
Minister said: We were briefed by His Excellency the Foreign on
the subject and we support any progress towards dialogue
between India and Pakistan.
• Asked if the Extradition Treaty signed between Pakistan and
Uzbekistan could also be effective to extradite Uzbek nationals
residing in Afghanistan, the Foreign Minister of Pakistan said:
Let me clarify, it is a Treaty between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Under the provisions of this Treaty if a criminal of Uzbek
citizenship is found to be on Pakistani territory, the Government
of Pakistan would, in accordance with this Treaty, proceed against
that person with a view to his extradition. It does not deal with
Afghanistan.
• When his comments were sought on a broad-based government
in Afghanistan, the Uzbek Foreign Minister said:
• We will recognize and respect any government in Afghanistan
which comes into being as a choice of the people of Afghanistan.
• Asked if Uzbekistan was prepared to give recognition to the
Taliban government in Kabul, as the guest Foreign Minister has
just stated that his country respects the ground realities, and the
reality is that the Taliban control 90 to 95 percent area of the
country, the Uzbek Foreign Minister said:
We have been talking with the Taliban. We have had meetings with
their leaders including Mulla Urnar, Mulla Mutawakkal and the Afghan
Ambassador in Islamabad. But this does not mean that Uzbekistan recognizes
their government as the central government of Afghanistan. This is our
position. We wish the United Nations to pay an important role in Afghanistan,
as it remains the only international mechanism on the issue. In order to bring
both the conflicting groups close, we discussed this issue with all the
neighbours of Afghanistan and three permanent members of the Security
Council, namely United States, Russia and China. China is a neighbour of
Afghanistan and also a member of the Security Council. All of them think that
the only mechanism which can help is the mechanism of the United Nations.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVII, Issue 1.2, pp. 205-12, Jan-Feb 2001
T RANSCRIPT OF T HE J OINT P RESS B RIEFING A DDRESSED BY

T HE F OREIGN M INISTERS OF P AKISTAN AND K AZAKHSTAN
ON 20 F EBRUARY 2001
Comments by the Foreign Minister of Pakistan

His Excellency the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan is visiting
Islamabad today. We have had a brief conversation which will be continued in
the afternoon when he would call on the Chief Executive, General Pervez
Musharraf to convey to him an invitation from the President of Kazakhstan
for participation in the Summit of the Conference on Interaction and
Confidence-building measures, in Asia, to be held towards the later part of this
year. Now I will request His Excellency the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan to
inform you about this forum and to say something in the context of our
bilateral relations.
Comments by the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan

It is indeed a great pleasure for me to be here in Islamabad this morning . I am
here on a special mission to deliver a personal message of invitation by our
President, Mr. Nazarbayov to General Pervez Musharraf, especially Pakistan
has always been actively participating in the CICA process. The CICA, i.e.
Conference On Interaction on Confidence-building measures in Asia, was
initiated in 1992 by our President at the 47th Session of the UNGA. The basic
idea behind this initiative, which is not absolutely new, was to have a forum
for combined efforts to bring about a cooperative structure for security and
cooperation in Asia in the new environment after the collapse of the bi-polar
world. In other words, we believe that Asia as a region deserves common
structure of cooperation, which would bring the nations of this vast and very
diversified part of the world together.
The CICA is in no way an isolated initiative. On the contrary, it is a
political initiative which tries to be complementary to other regional efforts in
Asia to promote cooperation and security. Of course, we do not want to have
any replicas or blue-prints of whatever regional structures we have in other
parts of the world. Asia, as I said, is a very unique part of the world. It is very
diversified, great civilizations of humankind have appeared in this part of the
world. Therefore, we are here in order to once again stress the importance of
our joint efforts. We believe that this move now is a joint initiative of those
countries who have actively participated in this process.
Fifteen Asian countries including Russia, China, India, Iran, Pakistan,
Turkey, Egypt, Mongolia and Central Asian republics etc. are on board and
this is a very significant and very visible group. Within 8 years of its
development, the CICA process is now ready to become a real fact of political
60 IPRI Factfile
life in the world. In 1999, there was a meeting of Foreign Ministers of CICA in
Kazakhstan and they had adopted a Declaration of principles. We are now
heading on a consensus basis and through a joint vision for a Summit of CICA
states in Kazakhstan, somewhere in the fall of this year. We are preparing a
basic document which will reflect our common vision about how our Asian
home should look like, and what steps and measures should be taken to bring
our nations together for the promotion of peace and security in this region.
We are trying to concentrate on those factors which unite us. At the
same time we are quite alive to those differences and problems which exist in
Asian region. But we believe that it is more productive to concentrate on those
factors which unite in order to promote our common understanding for
cooperation and security in Asia. I may add here that we are heading for the
Summit not for the sake of Summit; we see the Summit as a very important
starting point to bring new substance to CICA process in the context of those
challenges which we all face in the 21st century.
I have also discussed with my friend, Mr. Abdul Sattar, the Foreign
mister of Pakistan, the bilateral cooperation, regional as well as global issues.
Let me remind you that Pakistan together with India are first countries which
our President visited way back in February 1992. Therefore, we enjoy very
good bilateral cooperation with this country in trade, energy and transport
sectors, science and technology and in many areas. We have agreed that the
Joint Commission, which was established in 1993, would hold its 4th meeting
in Kazakhstan in June this year.
This statement by the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan was followed
by couple of questions. The visiting dignitary responded to all the questions.
• Asked if he saw a bright future for the CICA in the presence of a
flash point in South Asia i.e. Kashmir, and if he thought that the
new organization could play a role in resolving this long-standing
problem, the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan said:
I intentionally stressed the uniqueness of Asia - that it is a home
of old civilizations of thought. Our scholars and thinkers have
taught us optimism. Of course, we believe that the CICA process
has a bright future even in the context of those differences which
we continue to have in our region. We further believe that CICA
is the very instrument which can help remove those difficulties
and differences.
• “Including everything” was the visiting Foreign Minister’s reply
when asked if Kashmir was also included in those difficulties and
differences.
• To another question, the visiting Foreign Minister said that
Afghanistan was very much part of the CICA process and from
their point of view President Rabbani should represent the
country at that forum.

Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXXIII, Issue 3, March 2001, pp. 248-51.
A R EPORT ON A C ALL ON T HE F OREIGN M INISTER BY T HE

V ISITING A DVISOR TO T HE K YRGYZ P RESIDENT
M R . A SKAR A ITMATOV
Mr. Askar Aitmatov held detailed discussions on bilateral regional and

international issues with the Foreign Minister. During the discussions, tie
Foreign Minister briefed him on the situation in Afghanistan and Kashmir.
The Foreign Minister informed the Advisor that the situation in Afghanistan
has been deteriorating in the last couple of years due to the unprecedented
drought, internal strife and the destruction of physical infrastructure. The two
agreed that it was essential for the development and economic progress of the
region that peace and normalcy was restored in Afghanistan and a broad-
based, multi-ethnic and representative government formed.
During the discussions the two sides decided to further consolidate
bilateral ties between the two countries and explore fresh avenues to
strengthen the existing cooperation. Special emphasis was laid on making
concerted efforts to increase bilateral trade and economic relations.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXXIII, Issue 3, p. 241, March 2001
A R EPORT ON A C ALL ON T HE C HIEF E XECUTIVE BY

T HE A DVISOR TO T HE K YRGYZ P RESIDENT ON
I NTERNATIONAL A FFAIRS M R . A SKAR A ITMATOV
The Advisor to the Kyrgyz President on International Affairs Mr. Askar

Aitmatov called on the Chief Executive today. He is presently visiting Pakistan
in order to hold consultations, ahead of the forthcoming visit of the Kyrgyz
President.
The discussions focused on matters of bilateral cooperation as well as
regional and international issues, particularly Kashmir and Afghanistan The
Chief Executive emphasized the need for further strengthening economic
cooperation. He stated that a stable and peacefuI Afghanistan could provide
vital overland link between Pakistan and the Kyrgyz Republic, which could
accelerate the economic development of both the countries and also promote
regionaI harmony and prosperity.
62 IPRI Factfile
The Chief Executive asked the visiting dignitary to convey his

greetings and best wishes to President Askar Akayev, whose visit to Pakistan is
keenly awaited. He hoped that the visit would further consolidate the bilateral
relations.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3, p. 242, March 2001
A R EPORT ON T ALKS OF T HE F OREIGN M INISTER OF

K AZAKHSTAN W ITH T HE O FFICIAL I N T HE F OREIGN O FFICE
I N I SLAMABAD ON A CCOUNT OF R EGULAR E XCHANGES
B ETWEEN T HE T WO C OUNTRIES
Islamabad: 27 January 2003
Mr. Dulat O. Kuanishev, Vice Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan

is in Islamabad to hold consultations as a part of regular changes between the
two countries.
Vice Foreign Minister held detailed discussions with the Additional
Secretary (Afghanistan & ECO) assisted by officials from both sides. The
important areas of discussion included enhancement of bilateral trade and the
need to explore new areas of bilateral economic cooperation, resumption of
air-flights between Pakistan Kazakhstan, cooperation in the field of Science &
Technology Culture Sports and Education etc. The two sides also agreed that
the relaxation of visa regime would be useful for increased interaction of
business community and tourists of the two countries
Special emphasis was laid on the need for closer cooperation in the
defence field. It was also agreed that the Fifth Session of Pakistan Kazakhstan
Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) next month
During his stay Mr Dulat O Kuanishev, Vice Foreign Minister would
call on the Foreign Secretary and also exchange views with Secretary Defence
Lt General (Retd) Hamid Nawaz Khan on Pak-Kazakh defence cooperation
and Secretary Economic Affairs vision, Dr. Waqar Masood, Khan to discuss
issues related to Fifth Pak-Kazakh JMC.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXY, Issue, 1 p. 137, Jan- Feb 2003
R EPORT ON T HE V ISIT OF T HE P RESIDENT OF T AJIKISTAN

TO P AKISTAN FROM 12-14 M AY 2004
Excellency Mr. Emomali Sharipovich Rahmonov, President of Republic of

Tajikistan visited Pakistan from 12-14 May 2004 at the invitation of His
Excellency General Pervez Musharraf, President of Pakistan and His
Excellency Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali, Prime Minister of Pakistan. The
President of Tajikistan was accompanied by a high level delegation including
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Adviser to the President on External Policy,

Minister for Economy and Trade, Minister of Finance, Minister of Education
and Minister of Justice and senior officials.
Pakistan and Tajikistan have traditionally enjoyed close and cordial
relations characterized by a common cultural heritage, regular exchange of
high level visits and shared perceptions on major global and regional issues.
President General Pervez Musharraf held official talks and hosted a
banquet in honour of the President of Tajikistan on 12 May 2004. Prime
Minister Mir Zafarutlah Khan Jamali held official talks and hosted a lunch in
honour of the visiting dignitary on 13th May 2004. The Tajik President and the
Prime Minister witnessed a ceremony for signing of bilateral agreements and
also addressed a joint press conference.
The talks between Pakistani leadership and President Rahmonov will
focus on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest. The two Countries
are keen on enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in the economic sphere.
Pakistan and Tajikistan are also partners in the Organization of
Islamic Conference (OIC) and Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).
The two countries are keen to enhance effectiveness of OIC to enable it to
realize aspirations of the Islamic Urnmah. Pakistan will attend the 8th ECO
Summit to be held in Dushanbe on 14th September 2004.
The visit of President Rahmonov was preceded by the inaugural
session of Pakistan-Tajikistan Joint Economic Commission (JEC) at
Ministerial level, which was held in Islamabad, from 6-7 May. The JEC took a
number of important decisions to augment economic interaction between the
two countries.
Meeting with Senate Chairman

The President of Tajikistan Mr. Emomali Sharipovich Rahmonov underlined
the need for an effective cooperation between the Parliaments of Pakistan and
Tajikistan. Talking to Chairman Senate Mohammed Mian Soomro here on
Wednesday.
The Tajik President said such cooperation would pave the way for a
conducive atmosphere aimed at promoting cooperation in different fields.
The Tajik President who called on Chairman Senate, invited him to
pay an official visit to Tajikistan as the head of a parliamentary delegation.
He said that his country was keen to develop its relations with
Pakistan in various fields. He said that there existed vast potential for mutually
beneficial cooperation in scientific, technical and economic fields.
He was of the view that joint ventures in the sectors like construction
of highways, transport, road network and manufacturing of agricultural
products would be of immense benefit for the two neighboring countries.
He was appreciative of President Pervez Musharraf’s role in global
64 IPRI Factfile
and regional policies particularly war against terrorism and steps taken for
improving the regional economic relations.
Tracing the historical and cultural relations, the Tajik President
underlined the need of more exchanges at all levels to facilitate people to
people contact.
The Chairman Senate thanked the Tajik President for extending an
invitation to him to visit Tajikistan. Sharing the sentiments of Tajik head of
State, Soomro said that there is a lot of commonalities between the two close
neighboring countries. He said that there is a strong and sincere desire among
the Pakistani leadership as well as the people of Pakistan to have very close
relationship and more interaction with the brotherly people of Tajikistan.
Parliamentary cooperation could play a very significant role in this regard, said
the Chairman Senate. Referring to President Musharraf’s recent visit to
Tajikistan, Soomro hoped that it would boost economic and trade relations
between the two countries.
Underlining the need of improving the business and trade ties
between Pakistan and Tajikistan, the Chairman Senate said that Pakistan is a
big market for Tajikistan businessmen and offers immense opportunities for
them. He said that joint ventures in areas like energy, manufacturing units and
professional services industries would foster mutually beneficial economic
relations.
He said that Gwadar port would provide a useful link to promote
trade links between Pakistan and the Central Asian Republics. The Chairman
Senate expressed the view that the cultural exchanges and facilitating the
students to study in disciplines like Engineering and Medical would also be
useful to promote bilateral cooperation and mutual understanding between the
people of the two countries. Federal Minister for Petroleum and Natural
Resources, Ch. Nouraiz Shakoor and the members of the Tajikistan delegation
were also present during the meeting.
Meeting between Trade Ministers of Pakistan and Tajikistan

A three-member delegation of Tajikistan led by Mr. Solier Khakim, Minister
for Trade and Economy called on Federal Minister for Commerce Humayun
Akhtar Khan at the Ministry of Commerce. Both the sides agreed to enhance
trade and economic relations between the two countries.
Commerce Minister, Humayun Akhtar Khan particularly expressed
his desire to purchase cotton from Tajikistan and said that the Government of
Pakistan would figure out how to do that.
Mr. Humayun said that he would send a delegation to explore the
prospects of importing cotton from Tajikistan to Pakistan. Mr. Humayun also
stressed on joint ventures in cement industry, textile, telecommunication and
engineering sectors. He also offered technicai and political assistance to
Tajikistan in joining WTO.

Mr. Humayun mentioned that the restrictive visa policy by Tajik
Government was one of the obstacles in improving people to people contacts
as well as enhancing trade ties. He also talked about the rationalization of high
tariff rates prevailing in Tajikistan in order to facilitate trade between the two
countries.
The Commerce Minister also pointed out the problems in repatriation
of capital form Tajikistan to Pakistan. Mr. Humayun proposed Preferential
Trade Agreement between the two countries which, according to him would
increase the scope of economic cooperation in future.
The Tajik Minister, Mr. Khakim agreed to remove visa restrictions for
the Pakistani business community so that both the countries might benefit
form bilateral trade.
Mr. Khakim requested the Government of Pakistan to start flights
from Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi to Dushanbe to resolve Transportation
problems. He also offered to set up hydro-power projects in Pakistan.
Mr. Khakim assured that his government would try to resolve all the
problems faced by the Pakistani business community. Tajik Minister said that
Pakistan could import aluminum from his country at reasonable prices and
make use of it in various industries especially housing sector.
Both the Ministers agreed to enlarge the scope of technical assistance
in the field of services sector particularly banking, insurance and instruction.
They said that the two sides should participate in each other’s fairs &
exhibitions.
They were of the view that the expected growth of trade between the
two countries could be achieved through frequent and sector specific
interaction between the business communities of both the countries.
Singing of Agreements
Pakistan and Tajikistan Thursday signed eight agreements on boosting
relations and establishing diplomatic missions in their respective capitals. They
were signed before Pakistani Prime Minister Zafarullah Jamali and visiting
Tajikistan President Emomali Sharipovich Rahmonov.
1 am very satisfied with the contents of agreements. We have decided
that immediate action should be started for their implementation,” Jamali told
a joint press conference. The agreements cover education, tourism, drug
trafficking, taxation, law enforcement cooperation, and diplomatic visas.
Bilateral committees on counter terrorism and regional stability held their first
meetings during Sharipovich’s visit.
Rahmonov, on his first visit to Pakistan since assuming the
presidency, held talks with his counterpart Pervez Musharraf as well as Jamali.
“All meetings were held in a very cordial atmosphere and the primary goal was
66 IPRI Factfile
to strengthen relations between the two countries,” Rahmonov said.

Pakistan converted a 13 million dollar loan to Tajikistan into a grant
during his visit. The two countries also decided to resume air links.
Joint Press Conference

Tajikistan will export 2 billion kilowatts of electricity to Pakistan through the
famous Wakhan corridor, besides developing transportation links to promote
trade by signing a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). The two-day Pak-Tajik
Joint Economic Commission (JEC) took these decisions here on Friday.
However, most of the bilateral agreements and Memorandum of
Understandings (MOUs) would be signed next week during the visit of Tajik
President Emomali Rakhmonov, who is expected here on May 12.
Finance Minister Shaukat Aziz and Soliev Khakim, Tajik Minister for
Trade and Economy, addressing a press conference after the JEC said the two
sides would work together to develop the 42 kilometers long Wakhan corridor
to connect Tajikistan to Pakistan through the Karakoram Highway. Tajik team
showed keen interest to export over 2 billion KW of electricity through Pamir-
Wakhan-Afghanistan to Chitral in Pakistan. “Pakistan partly agreed to import
energy from Tajikistan and initiate construction of 500-750 KV power supply
lines. The cost of construction, value of electricity exports and pricing would
be considered on mutually beneficial basis.”
Tajikistan also requested Pakistan to help assist in seeking multilateral
financing for the construction of Roghun hydel power station (Tajikistan),
which would generate electricity for exports to the region. The initial
understanding in this regard was reached in 1992, but the civil war in
Tajikistan and the situation of Afghanistan frustrated all such attempts.
Tajikistan also expected some $500 million in export credits from
Pakistan to generate resources for the dam. Tajikistan recently reaIized a deal
with General Mohammed Daud, commander of Kunduz in northeast
Afghanistan, to export electricity at a concessional rate. Tajiks and Afghans
also agreed to reduce tariffs on goods in transit, like cotton and dry fruits on
mutual basis, in addition to Dushanbe’s offer to build new bridges across the
Arnu Darya River that divides the two countries.
Mr. Aziz, citing the example of electricity exports from Tajikistan to
northern Afghanistan, said it is possible to import power from Tajikistan to
Pakistan. He said the World Bank is working on a feasibility study for
establishment of grid stations for export of electricity from the Central Asia to
the West Asia. He fully supported such plans. The Asian Development Bank
(ADB) has also been working on programmes to develop regional
communication and transportation infrastructure to enhance regional trade,
investment and economic cooperation. The Tajik side also expressed interest
to join the quadrilateral agreement between Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan
and China on transit transportation signed in 1995. Tajikistan would formally

request the member states to join the treaty.
Pakistan has agreed to import cotton from Tajikistan, in case of
higher domestic needs. Two sides expressed their desire to pursue joint
ventures and promote cooperation between the private sectors. Pakistan also
agreed to establish a branch of National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) in Dushanbe.
Other areas of cooperation include: banking, insurance, agriculture,
information technology, and the pharmaceutical industry.
Pakistan has also offered to help Tajikistan in modernizing, expanding
and setting up new cement plants. Two sides have identified infrastructure,
manufacturing, textiles, cement, banking, oil and gas capital markets, scientific
technology, tourism, mining, energy irrigation and agriculture as potential areas
of economic cooperation. There are nine agreements on the agenda, expected
to be signed during Tajik President’s visit, including the Investment Protection
Treaty, Avoidance of Double Taxation Treaty, visa abolition for diplomatic
passports, tourism cooperation, cooperation between APP and Tajikistan
News Agency, industrial cooperation and agreement to declare lslamabad and
Dushanbe as sister cities.
Visit to Lahore
Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi has said the visit of Tajikistan’s
President, Emomali Rahmonov to Pakistan would further strengthen the
bilateral ties between the two countries, adding that it would unfold new vistas
of cultural and economic cooperation. The Chief Minister expressed these
views while talking to the Tajikistan President at the Chief Minister’s House
here.
He said Tajikistan is a brotherly Islamic country and as a result of
establishment of Tajikistan Embassy in Pakistan, the mutual ties between the
two countries would further consolidate. He pointed out that Punjab
government is fast implementing a comprehensive programme of reforms in
agriculture and education sectors as a result of which standard of living of the
common man would further improve.
Mr. Pervaiz Elahi said a literate and enlightened society could only be
created through promotion of education, besides ensuring poverty alleviation.
He informed a composite programme for streamlining emergency system of
teaching hospitals of Punjab is being undertaken expeditiously, for which an
amount of Rs one billion has been allocated. He told the dignitary that
provision of medicine and modern equipment, basic health units and
district/tehsil headquarter hospitals is being ensured in Punjab.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister said, mark-up rate on agri loans has
been reduced, whereas the land-less farmers are being provided land at the rate
of 12.5 acres for which fertilizers, seeds and irrigation water would also be
68 IPRI Factfile
made available during the next three years. He emphasised that Punjab is
meeting agricultural needs of the whole country with 90 per cent of cotton
being produced in the Punjab province.
The President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmonov appreciated the pace
of progress and development in Punjab. He said the bilateral ties in the fields
of commerce and trade would further be enhanced between Pakistan and
Tajikistan in future, having a long-term impact on socioeconomic
development of both countries.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXXI, Issue, V, 1-25, p. 125-133, May 2004
“D RAWBACKS OF E LECTRICITY I MPORT FROM T AJIKISTAN ”,

BY D R H ABIB G UL , AS A PPEARED IN D AILY “T HE N EWS ” ON
21 J UNE 2004
For meeting growing energy demand, Pakistan partly agreed to import two
billion Kilowatt Hydroelectricity from Tajikistan, according to the
Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Government of
Tajikistan (GOT) and the Government of Pakistan (GOP) in early May, 4
2004, the initial Understanding of which was reached in 1992 but could not
execute due to civil war in Afghanistan. Is the import of electricity or electrical
power justified or not. In this paper, a bird eye view is given in order to
understand the proposed project.
Pakistan: Tajikistan GDP was US $ 6 billion in 1998 and has
experienced a civil war after the collapse of USSR. Geographic coordinates of
the country is 39 00 N, 71 00 E with total area of 143,100 Sq Km in which the
land occupy 142,700 Sq Km and the water 400 Sq Km. 93 percent of the
territory is covered by mountains. The lowest point is 300 M at Sar Darya and
the highest point is 7,495 M at Qullai Kommunizm.
Rivers System: The river system of Tajikistan is uneven, with the
greatest density occurring in mountainous regions; the plains of the north and
southwest have the fewest number of rivers. Almost all the rivers belong to
the basins of the Amu Darya, Syr Darya and Zeravshan. The only exceptions
are the small Karadzhilga, Akdzhilga and Muzkol rivers in the eastern Pamirs
which carry their water into Lake Karakul and into the Markansu River, which
belongs to the Tarim River basin.
“Occupying three-fourths of the country’s area, the Amu Darya basin
includes the Pianzh River, the Vakhsh River, and the Kafirnigan River, all of
which feed the Amu Darya. The rivers that run of the northern slope of the
Turkestan range — the Isfara, Khodzhasbakirgan, Karasu, and Aksu belong to
the basin of the Syr Darya, which flows for 195 km across northern
Tadzhikistan. The, upper course of the Zeravshan, with its tributaries, the
Fandar’ia. Kshtut, and Magian is located in Tajikistan: its basin occupies nearly
one-tenth of the country’s area.” (Dr. Khalid Saeed, ASC (CA) Peshawar
University). Most of the rivers, which originate in the high mountains, are fed
by glaciers and snow. The rivers are fed chiefly by glaciers have a maximum
discharge in July and August; those fed chiefly by snow have a maximum
discharge in May and June. The rivers that rise in the middle elevations or
lower are fed predominantly by snow-belt, rain, and groundwater and have
their greatest discharge from March to May. The rivers are used for irrigation
& to generate hydroelectric energy. In some parts of the country, coal powder
is sprayed over snow to melt it for meeting water requirements. Tajikistan has
ranking high in terms of absolute reserves of hydroelectric power. The
republic’s 11 known rivers (those flowing for more than 10km) have a
hydroelectric potential of 32.6 million kilowatts.
Pakistan Hydroelectricity Potential: Pakistan is one of the luckiest
countries of the world, possessing many times excessive potential of
hydroelectricity than its requirements. Though no comprehensive survey of
the hydel power is conducted due to financial constraints yet the gross
potential of the same is estimated as 80,000 MW, in the Northern Areas and
the NWFP. The Azad Jammu and Kashmir, FATA, Punjab and Sindh also
possess huge hydel potential of rivers and extensive canals system.
Northern Areas (Nas) of Pakistan are situated on the upper
mountainous region, bordering the Uighur Autonomous Region of the
Peoples Republic of China, Afghanistan, India and to some extent Tajikistan
through Walkhan Corridor. The Nas has total area of 27,000 Sq. miles situated
at the meeting point of Karakorm, Himalayan and Hindukush ranges. The
major rivers of the area are Astore, Hunza and Gilgit which like numerous
perennial streams fall into the Indus. The slopes of these rivers and streams
are high and drop almost 5,000 feet in a distance of more than 240 Km. It can
create potential of hydel power around 50,000 MW of which a fractional part
is exploited. PWD Northern Areas is working in this far flung areas to exploit
the potential while feasibility reports of a number of planned sites are under
conbsideration by the GoP.
The North West Frontier Province (NWFP)

The NWFP has also huge hydroelectricity potential like Nas. Many perennial
streams and rivers like lndus, Chitral, Panjkora, Swat, Kunhar, Kabul etc flow
in the area, creates numerous sites feasible for giant, medium, small, mini and
micro hydroelectric stations. There are tentatively 30,000 MW potential of
hydroelectricity out of which around 15 percent is exploited which enable this
province for supplying energy to other parts of the country and is one of the
biggest sources of its income. In the public sector, WAPDA; SHYDO and
PCRET, Ministry of Science and Technology are engaged in exploitation of
the untapped resources of hydel power in NWFP.
70 IPRI Factfile
Tajikistan’s Electricity Situation

Tajikistan has no surplus electricity to export to Pakistan. The total production
of electricity was 13.555 billion KWh in which 4.09 per cent produced from
fossil fuel and 95.9l per cent from hydel power. Electricity consumption was
12.555 KWh. Tajikistan export of electricity was 3.8 billion KWh against
import of 2.8 billion KWh in 1999. Tajikistan wants to construct Roghun
Hyclel Power Station which would generate power for exporting to Pakistan
and requested the later to help assist in seeking multilateral financial assistance.
Tajikistan also expects US $ 500 million in credit from Pakistan to generate
resources for the project. Moreover, the detail cost of construction of this
power station, transmission line, meters and pricing of power is not yet
worked out. The only progress made is the feasibility report, on which the
World Bank is working for establishing grid stations.
Drawback of the Hydroelectricity Import

The project if implemented would be a wonder of the world. The transmission
line will have to pass through Pamir-Wakhan-Afghanistan to Chitral which is
the world’s most difficult range. A triple 500 KV single circuit transmission
line will require huge domestic and foreign currency. According to our rough
estimates, implementation of triple 500 KV single circuit transmission line
with sub stations will cost Rs. 75 million (25+25+25) per Km. From Tajikistan
to Pakistan, three picking centres will have to be. established. More than 500
KV line is not justified for Pakistan on the ground that only developed
countries have its experience in difficult terrain. The switch gears, breakers,
transformers, control devices, insulators etc will have to be imported. Pakistan
has no expertise in ultra high voltage line regulation problems because of
inductive reactance and capacitive reactance which are also possible. If design
is not sought out properly then radio interference and communication
interference is also possible. In UHVTL, any fault if arises, will cause a great
set back to the economy as there will be no alternate line to exist in case of
emergency. The Project will also take long time to come in shape.
High Cost of Electricity

Pakistan planned to import 2 billion KW (2 million MW) electricity. Assuming,
electricity is purchased @ Re. 1/- per watt at generation point in Tajikistan, it
will cost Rs.2,000 billion. The distance between Doshanbe planned Hydel
plant which will be the main source of hydroelectricity to Pakistan, is more
than 500 KM to Chitral. SCTL for high length will be needed in excess.
Besides length, heavy snow fall and land sliding which is a common feature of
the area will cause violent weather. Violent weather losses are higher than fair
weather losses. High corona losses are also expected in the prevailing
circumstances. UHV is costly than 500 KV SCTL. To keep the lines in order,
heavy recurring expenditures on the look after, sure and reliable transmission
of electricity will be required which will increase its cost of delivery.
Insecure Project
Importing of electricity via Wakhan is said to be insecure on geographical and
climatic reasons. From defence point of view, it is not desired to import
hydroelectricity as India is also situated near the Pak-border. Peace in
Afghanistan will take time to come. The transmission line from Tajikistan will
cross the area near China. Tajikistan has most of the boundary with China in
dispute and there are territorial disputes between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.
Any act of sabotage from anti-project elements will create lot of disturbance in
Tajikistan and Pakistan by disrupting the electricity import.
Importing of hydroelectricity from Tajikistan will not help in stopping
upward revision of power tariff and politically harmful. Increasing
employment opportunities; reducing high inflation and alleviating poverty
from the project could not be expected. Almost all enterprises, particularly
small and medium will be further squeezing and the number of sick industrial
units will increase. In these circumstances, we proposed construction of own
multi purposed dams, feasible sites of which are existing in Pakistan.
Economy of Indigenous Generation of Hydroelectricity

In our opinion, Pakistan should generate its own hydroelectricity by
constructing big, small, mini and micro level plants at the existing feasible sites,
appropriate and above all, non controversial. If resources are mobilized,
WAPDA, SHYDO and PCRET can play pivotal role in generation,
transmission and distribution of cheap power for the development of
industries, agriculture, commerce, construction, mining and household sectors.
Increase in indigenous generation of hydroelectricity will lessen
burden on conventional and non-conventional sources of energy and store
water for irrigation purpose. More or less all feasible sites are situated in the
areas where due to non availability of employment resources, masses are
approaching to natural resources and very ruthlessly exploiting it, mostly
forests reflecting on our plains in shape of heavy floods, destruction of which
needs no explanation. Heavy losses of forest impact heavily in degradation of
environment and can control through providing employment opportunities by
installation of hydel plants. Hydroelectric stations can bring prosperity and
alleviate poverty not only in hilly areas but in the plains also by providing
cheap electricity, boosting trade and protecting masses from heavy floods.
Basha, is one of the site, most feasible for the purpose. There, at the cost of
Rs. 290 billion we can get 23.82 billion KWh in one year apart from other
benefits.
72 IPRI Factfile
GOP Future Role in Electricity Generation

The GOP is fully aware of the importance of hydroelectricity. Initial report on
Skardu dam is being prepared while feasibility study of Akori dam is under
progress. Feasibility report of the Basha dam would be completed in June,
current year. Letter of interest for Manda dam has been signed on May 11,
2004 and the President of Pakistan is expected to announce work on one of
the big dam next month.
WAPDA has planned to construct 33 dams/stations on rivers besides
a number of schemes are under consideration on canal network. The GoP is
also upgrading Mangla dam. If a few planned dams are constructed by
WAPDA, Pakistan will have no need of importing hydroelectricity. If 50
percent ‘of the existing potential is exploited, not only the national
requirements will be met but the export of hydel power to neighbouring
countries would be possible.
Dependence on hydroelectricity import is neither prestigious nor
beneficial for Pakistan. Nawabzada Liaquat Ali Khan, in 1948, described
shortage of electricity as the major hurdle in establishing sound agricultural
and industrial base. He emphasized on the generation of own hydroelectricity
instead of importing from India which was 36 percent of the total electricity
consumption of Pakistan those days.
The author is the Deputy Director of Pakistan Council of Renewable
Energy Technologies, Peshawar and the opinion expressed in this paper are of
the author and do not imply on the part of the Government of Pakistan.
(The author is Deputy Director, PCRET)
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXXI, Issue, VI-A, 11-30 pp. 347-353, June 2004
“P AK -C AR R ELATIONS : F UTURE O UTLOOK ”

It was popularly believed that Afghanistan given the dynamism, hard
work and innovative spirit of the people will surge forward rapidly after the
overthrow of the Taliban, appears to have bogged down in problems. Not
only it has yet to achieve financial and political stability but to deal with the
myriad forces that threaten its national unity. Running the government poses
the biggest challenge. The unfairly perceived domination of the Northern
Alliance in Afghanistan remains a vexatious issue along with the Pukhtoon
majority posing another problem. Jamiat, the powerful faction in the Karzai
government, is opposed to monarchy, although the former king who returned
from exile soon after the Taliban were eliminated does not want kingship and
seeks to reunite and serve his country as Father of the Nation. After the Loya
Jirga and the passing of Afghan Constitution in June 2003, preparations are
afoot for elections in October 2004. Nearly 8.6 million Afghans out of nearly
11 .6 million are registered as voters and despite opposition from Taliban
elements there is great interest amongst women voters.

Apparently, the US seems to be in Afghanistan and the Gulf for a
long haul. As long as Osama. bin Laden and Taliban network is not completely
dismantled, the US-Pak relations will most likely endure; however according to
Stephen P. Cohen, the US support to President Musharraf is only “a short
term arrangement” and the new administration in the US will not bring any
meaningful changes in US policies. On the worst side, fears of Afghanistan
breaking up into semi autonomous regions dominated by regional warlords
remains a possibility, if the US decides to make a quick exit.
Some U.S. leaders and analysts have alluded to Marshall-type
reconstruction plan for Afghanistan. This seems an idealistic view. For one
thing, Afghanistan is not Europe and is not tied to West by any Anglo-Saxon
links. It is one of the most backward, fractious countries in the world and
resistant to change. From its territory, unprecedented terrorist acts were
launched on the US mainland, which provoked U.S. to undertake military
reprisals. Besides, the West has short attention span and donor fatigue
syndrome is evident. For the last three years, the U.S. and its allies are busy
hounding out the Taliban Al-Qaeda remnants in the south and south eastern
regions of Afghanistan; the adjoining Pakistan’s tribal belt is another “wild
west” and a haven for these elements; and unless the warlords are controlled,
demobilised and disarmed, national army and police raised, any chances of
relief, reconstruction and investment will remain a utopia. That is why NATO
now wants to beef up the number of ISAF peacekeeping forces.
What are prospects of gas and oil pipelines? Firstly, they are still
statements of intent. The Afghan government will have to muster financial
resources to build pipelines, the plants needed to turn natural gas into liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG) and to improve the harbour facilities for LPG tankers.
The UNOCAL and BRIDAS litigation deterred many U.S. companies to
invest, as they are worried about the instability of Afghanistan and even South
Asia.
ISAF will have to apportion separate funds for the defense of these
pipelines, as approximately 700-800 km of these will run through Afghanistan.
This all depends if the ISAF is there for a long haul in the region and increases
its present force level. In Afghanistan, gas imports need to be supplemented
by development of their own gas deposits in Mazar-e-Sharif region. As for
Pakistan, it had too has potential gas fields and deposits that are not enough
and will need gas in the next quarter of the century.
Some energy-deficient East Asian countries may also welcome early
building and completion of the pipeline systems. After all, after the demise of
the Soviet Union many foreign companies were trooping in Islamabad to
explore the possibility of passage of Central Asian oil to South Asia and
onwards to the Far East. If the security of these pipelines is underwritten,
certain countries of Southeast and East Asia, including Japan and South
74 IPRI Factfile
Korea, may also agree to finance these projects. Many of these countries are
planning to opt for LPG for coal in view of rising threat of pollution.
As a close neighbour with a common border of about 2,430 km,
Pakistan and Afghanistan share cultural and religious ties. Afghanistan has to
rely on Pakistan for transshipment of incoming and outgoing cargo. The
Afghan refugees have compounded socioeconomic problems in urban cities,
such as Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta and other parts of the country,
including the tribal belt. In the aftermath of September 11, waves of
migrations took place to Pakistan and nearly half of the country was displaced
by forced migration to neighbouring countries. In other words, if Gwadar has
to become an entry port in the region, it will need a peaceful Afghanistan and
trouble free borders with that country.
In the meantime, Central Asia and Pakistan must keep on vigorously
pursing the peace option in Afghanistan. Mutual Pak-Afghan trade is expected
to reach Rs one billion in this year. Pakistan can contribute, albeit modestly, in
construction and rehabilitation of Afghanistan, especially in housing, trade,
transportation and infrastructure sectors.
Since the independence of the CARs in the early 1990s, Afghanistan
has remained mired in conflict; Pakistan and Afghanistan, two ECO members,
could not avail the opportunity for any meaningful collaboration. According to
some analysts, Pakistan has already “missed the Central Asian bus”; however,
present opportunities if still grasped could open up prospects with the region
or else the CAR-Pak nexus will be reduced to a mere pipedream.
If normalcy and stability does not return to Afghanistan soon, any
new network of pipelines or trade routes will bypass or ignore the region for
better alternatives. Hence, it is high time for the guns in Afghanistan not only
to “rest” but also to “rust” away so that the benighted country is finally
wrested away from the incubus of fratricidal war. On their part, the CARs
have to do their bit and make energetic efforts to open up and outreach South
Asia. They have to shed away their past inhibitions and accept Pakistan’s new
geo-strategic role in the region - now closely allied with the West against
terrorism like theirs.
Reiterating pious hopes, rhapsodizing over historical-cum religious
connections and harping on tantalising future business prospects with the
CARs have become the staple of seminars, official meetings and communiqués
for the last decade. Now, serious homework has to be done to bring peace to
Pakistan’s tribal regions and by Afghans leadership to restore harmony in their
country, as this is the only way to unlock the riches of Central Asia. Should it
be successful, it is going to be a “win-win game” for the entire region.
Realistically, Pakistan is but one of the many powerful players on the big
canvas and is faced with serious limitations. Some may argue that the US
military presence and Russian influence in “near abroad” act as major
constraints. But the region is vast with immense potential and given good
circumstances and sound planning, Pak-CAR relations could still be

jumpstarted. There are opportunities in the region and there is enough
economic space in the energy-rich untapped “Stans.”
Central Asia is no longer the “black hole” of the globe as once
claimed, and it was early 1990s that it burst upon the international scene as an
object of “New Great Game.” This is different from the told “Great Game,”
of 19th century as now the internal dynamics in the CARs necessitate that the
region should open up, diversify links with the world outside and reduce its
dependence upon Russia and the US.
In the final analysis, it is the “Afghan corridor” that is still
blocking Pakistan’s physical access to the CARs, and, vice versa, only its
unblocking will materialize the connectivity with South and Southeast Asia.
Unfortunately, the war-tossed Afghanistan remains a major stumbling block.
Yet it holds the ultimate key for Pakistan to gain access to the CARs.
Therefore, all efforts need to be focused to prise open this passage to gain
access to the ex-Soviet republics.
While regional and international circumstances have no doubt
conspired against Pakistan, the latter should leave no stone unturned in
combating international terrorism, building a sound infrastructure along
Pakistan-Afghan border and cleansing its own fractious tribal belt of foreign
militants. At the same time, there is a dire need in setting its political house in
order by co-opting major political parties and regaining the trust and goodwill
of Afghans through trade, assistance and policy of non-interference.
Should that eventuate, it is Pakistan, Afghanistan and the CARs that
will gain the most but also the rest of countries of the Subcontinent.
The writer is Senior Research Fellow Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI)
Maqsoodul Hasan Nuri, The News, 23 August 2004
A N A PPRAISAL OF T HE V ISIT OF P RIME M INISTER S HAUKAT

A ZIZ TO T AJIKISTAN : I SLAMABAD ; 15 S EPTEMBER 2004
Pakistan and Tajikistan have agreed to increase economic cooperation and in
this regard have decided to establish a road linking both countries. This is a
good augury for the development of this region, which is endowed with
natural resources and has assumed importance in the changed world after
9/11.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, who called on President
Rahmonov on the eve of Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO)
summit, discussed a wide range of options with the Tajik president to enhance
economic interaction. The Prime Minister emphasized that the Gwadar port,
in Balochistan, could serve as transit for Tajikistan’s trade with the Gulf and
other countries.
76 IPRI Factfile
It was agreed that the joint economic commission of the two

countries would meet soon to build on the goodwill generated by Mr. Aziz’s
visit of Tajikistan and his talks with the Tajik leadership. Given that Pakistan’s
export to Tajikistan are expected to reach $50 million in a couple of years and
that Pakistan and Tajikistan are desirous of working closely to explore new
avenues for increasing economic links, Mr. Shaukat Aziz’s Tajik deliberations
on bilateral trade as well as diplomatic relations were most adequate. Both
States ought to take matching steps to translate this goodwill into tangible
gains.
That the region comprising Pakistan, Afghanistan and the Central
Asian Republics has become a pivotal spot in the world after Sept 11 cannot
be gainsaid. While Afghanistan was the direct target of this war, the spin-off-
effects of the war have affected these states. But at the same time, these States
seem to have realized the need for closing their ranks. This realization stems
from the fact of the wealth of oil and gas, etc, they command and for the
economic prosperity the utilization of this wealth could bestow to their people.
The Central Asian Republics bordering the Caspian Sea are known for
their fabulous reserves of oil and gas, which offer a viable alternative as a
source of energy for the global economy. The energy dependence of the world
economies requires these reserves to be linked to the international markets
through a reliable trade route that avoids its passage through Iranian or
Russian territory.
This is where Pakistan enters the equation. Pakistan offers that safe
passage through the Gwadar port. China, which is tipped as the world’s
economic giant in the future, is on a trade expansion mode: which means it
would also be looking towards Pakistan for opening up to the world.
This fact gives added significance to Pakistan’s geographical advantage
into economic gains.
His talks in Tajikistan prior to the ECO meeting seemed to be part of
this policy. Tajikistan is presently transacting trade with the outer world
through the ports of Iran and Georgia, which are at a distance of 5,000 km
from Dushanbe, whereas Pakistani ports - Karachi and Gwadar - are just 2,500
km away. So, establishing links through road and ports could accrue benefits
to both Pakistan and Tajikistan.
This brings us to the ECO. Pakistan achieved a trade surplus of
$404.4 million with ECO member countries in 2003-4. Pakistan’s exports to
ECO during the year under review stood at $26 million, while it imported
goods worth $421.6 million, showing a trade surplus of over $404.4 million.
Exports to Afghanistan stood at $492.9 million as against $315.7
million the previous year; Pakistan exported goods worth $92.4 million to Iran
during the year 2003-4 against $63.2 million in 2000-1; Pakistan exported
goods worth $218 8 million to Turkey against $146.3; Pakistan exports to
Kazakhstan stood at $9 million; Islamabad exported goods worth $6.6 million
to Kyrgyzistan during the year as against $1.5 million the previous year, an.
increase of 340 per cent; $0.3m worth goods to Tajikistan during the same
period against $0.2m, an increase of 50 per cent: and $1.3m worth goods
exported to Turkmenistan.
AII this goes to validate Prime Minister Shaukat’s Aziz’s policy of
refurbishing links with these countries with the aim of establishing a viable
regional economic bloc.
Pakistan needs to place maximum premium of links with the countries
in its neighborhood, for the world is moving towards setting of regional
economic blocs. Pakistan’s desire to instill life into SAARC and its entry into
the forums like ARF are pointers to the same policy. The effort to bring India
into the loop by initiating talks on all conflicts afflicting both countries is an
expression of the same wish. Prime Minister Aziz has expressed his intention
to resolving all problems stunting the relations between two countries, but of
course not at the cost of the central issue of J&K. During his talks with the
Tajik president, he reiterated the centrality of the issue of Kashmir.
Pakistan is making progress on the economic front, which entails
immense benefits for the country in every respect. This is due to the policies
adopted by Pakistan after Sept 11. Mr. Aziz has played a crucial role in it by
using the fiscal room afforded to the country by the debt rescheduling and
world market access.
He has always stressed upon the imperative of attaining economic
prowess. In pursuit of this objective, he has worked tirelessly towards
reforming Pakistani economy and extending it by linking it with outer world,
especially the countries adjacent to it.
The talks in Tajikistan are a continuation of Pakistan’s economic
rejuvenation process set in motion by Mr. Aziz; the ECO summit could
provide more such opportunities for Pakistan to expand its trade.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXXI, Issue, IX, pp. 261-264, Sep 2004
A N A PPRAISAL OF T HE P RESIDENT ’ S V ISIT TO C ENTRAL

A SIAN S TATES
President General Pervez Musharraf’s “journey of friendship and cooperation”
to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan once again spotlighted Pakistan’s vital geo-
strategic location as the Central Asian states affirmed a keen desire to have
trade corridor to global markets through the South Asian country’s seaports.
The four-day visit to the landlocked but energy-rich states also helped
consolidate Pakistan’s political and diplomatic relations with them, which the
President said would pave the way for much greater trade and economic
cooperation.
“We will underpin the close political and diplomatic ties with a vibrant
78 IPRI Factfile
trade relationship” President Musharraf said in Kyrgyz capital Bishkek as a

series of agreements in the diplomatic, information and education fields lent
substance to the country’s bilateral ties with the two countries.
The leaders of the two Central Asian countries, responding to
President Musharraf’s call for transit trade, were forthright and emphatic in
developing a proper infrastructure and making use of Karachi and Gwadar
deep sea ports to the common benefit of all.
Their deep interest in trade through Pakistan ports symbolized the
growing realization in Central Asia that Pakistan is the country, which
promised to be hub and gateway of regional trade in the near future.
In fact, President Islam Karimov told a joint press Conference after
formal talks in Tashkent that a day is not distant when Uzbekistan would
transport its major products through Gwadar.
We view construction of Gwadar sea port as very significant in terms
of advancing trade ties,” said the Uzbek leader, whose country is one of the
major exporters of cotton and fruits in the region.
With things looking up in terms of peace and stability in Afghanistan,
Karimov observed, prospects of a commerce corridor via Pakistan become
brighter with each passing day the Uzebk President maintained.
In Bishkek, President Askar Akaev went a step further, saying
Kyrgyzstan is already in the process of building in a road between their capital
and southern city of Osh, which will connect his country to Korakoram
Highway.
“We are eagerly looking forward to have trade access to worldwide
markets through Pakistan,” Akaev told newsmen. The two sides also formed a
joint working group that will look into the feasibility of transporting electricity
from Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan.
In respect of expandjng regional trade and economic cooperation, the
President highlighted the need for revitalizing the Economic Cooperation
Organization and said all member countries have to come forward to realize
this object. On the political side, the visit remained a success for Pakistan as
President Musharraf’s counterparts in both countries expressed their deep
appreciation for Islamabad’s unstinted fight against international terrorism.
Particularly, the President’s policies and firm actions against foreign
terrorists, who had taken refuge in country’s tribal region, bordering
Afghanistan, were viewed with great satisfaction. The two presidents also
signed a joint statement on forging cooperation in the fight against the
menace.
President Musharraf used the opportunity to reiterate Islamabad’s
position that it is against all forms and manifestations of terrorism and could
not allow any Uzbek to use its territory for activities against the interests of
Uzbekistan. His emphasis on friendship and cooperation in the fast-changing
world for the well being of the people of both countries received wide support
in Tashkent.
Also on the political side, Pakistan’s vital contribution to revitalizing
the OIC and its efforts for establishment of peace and stability and in
Afghanistan received warm recognition from the two leaders situated in the
north of the war-hit country.
President Musharraf and Akaev reported a complete commonality of
views on major regional and international issues as the Pakistani leader briefed
him about Islamabad’s position on various issues including dialogue process
with India for resolution of lingering Jammu and Kashmir dispute and other
issues.
He thanked the Central Asian leaders for their understanding and
support on the key South Asian dispute. Presidents, Karimov and Akaev, also
expressed admiration and support for Pakistan’s efforts aimed at steering the
Muslim world out of its present turmoil and in this context warmly
appreciated President Musharraf’s strategy of Enlightened Moderation as a
way forward.
On the diplomatic front, the President also spelt out Pakistan’s stance
on the UN reforms, expressing the country’s opposition to creation of more
centers of privilege at the Security Council, as it violates the basic principle of
sovereign equality of nations. Pakistan, he said, will coordinate its efforts with
the Central Asian nations in this regard.
The President’s visit was also marked by tremendous goodwill the
common people outpoured during his visits to historical sites in Uzbekistan
and Kyrgyzstan including mausoleum of great Islamic scholar Hazarat Imam
Bokhari and hometown of Zaheeruddin Babar, the founder of Mughal dynasty
in the Subcontinent.
The Central Asian media also attached great importance to the
Pakistani leader’s visit as the regional media covered his meetings and press
interactions extensively.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXXII, Issue, III, pp.141-44, March 2005
P AK -U ZBEKISTAN -K YRGYZSTAN T IES

President Pervez Musharaf’s tour of the two Central Asian States was
successful as there was unanimity of views on regional and international issues
including OIC, ECO and UN reforms with Uzbak President Islam Karimov
and Kyrgyzstan President Askar Akayev. During the meetings, the focus was
on strengthening economic and trade ties between the countries having
linkages of faith and geography and also common cultural heritage. In
Uzbekistan, President Pervez Musharraf while expressing determination to
jointly fight terror and extradite terrorists to the country of origin said: “We
ought to have a very effective extradition treaty, which will ensure institutional
80 IPRI Factfile
arrangement on extraditing any terrorist to our respective countries”. President

Pervez Musharraf expressed the desire that Pakistan would like to join the
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and asked Krimov’s support for
Pakistani membership in this regional organization, which comprises Russia,
China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The Uzbek
President said his country views Pakistan’s central geo-strategic location as
very significant, and it looks forward to having access to world markets
through Pakistani ports — Karachi and Gwadar. With peace and stability
gaining strength in Afghanistan, he said the prospects of Central Asian trade
through Pakistan look bright.
Pakistan and Kazakhstan had set-up a Joint Ministerial-Economic
Commission, which had first met in 1993 but no progress could be made due
to chaotic conditions in Afghanistan. In December 2003, Nursultan
Nazarbayev visited Pakistan and had one-on-one meeting with President
Pervez Musharraf. They had discussed ways and means to augment the
multifaceted relations and to benefit from each other’s experience. For
Pakistan, it was important to strengthen bilateral relations with the brotherly
country, as it reflected positively on our relations with other countries of the
region. In Kyrgyzstan, the two leaders stressed strengthening of their ties by
developing communication links, encouraging private sector and easing the
visa regime between the two countries. The three pacts relate to visa-free
regime for the holders of diplomatic and official passports; cooperation
between the two ministries of education; and cooperation between the
Associated Press of Pakistan and its Kyrgyz counterpart KABAR. President
Askar supported Pakistan’s vital role in the fight against terrorism, and the
concept of enlightened moderation. He also appreciated Pakistan for offering
access to its seaports.
There can be no two opinions that the most logical and viable route
for trade with Central Asian countries is Afghanistan; it therefore follows that
a sovereign, independent and stable Afghanistan is not only in the interest of
Pakistan but also in the interest of the entire region. Iran, Afghanistan and
Central Asian countries should remember that they are bound with each other
through religious, cultural, historical and economic ties over centuries. In view
of the geopolitical situation and current world political scenario whereby
Muslim countries are looked upon as places that engender terrorism, it is
imperative for Muslim countries to develop strong economies through
cooperation. And remember that strong economy is a prerequisite for strong
defence.
Pakistan had espoused a lot of expectations for establishing an ideal
relationship with Central Asian States that became independent countries after
collapse of the Soviet Union. It was rightly so due to Pakistan’s strategic
position, which is confluence and meeting point between Sinkiang of China,
Iran and Central Asian Republics. And also because of its principle city-port
Karachi — the closest trading port for this region, which was a convenient
route for their trade with the Western and other countries. But the civil war-
like conditions in Afghanistan the progress could not be made. It was also
because of the obscurantist elements rushing to those countries presenting
distorted version of Islam preaching militancy, which they abhorred and felt
unsecured.
Recently, when President Hamid Karzai visited New Delhi, the latter
had expressed the desire to join SAARC. Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has also
recently visited Iran when Iran wished to be a part of the SAARC —
Unfortunately, the SAARC — a relative newcomer among regional
groupings—has so far proved a non-starter since 1985, as trade among the
seven members accounts for less than 6 percent ot their total trade. As a
matter of fact, the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan has stymied
the progress. And of course other countries of the SAARC also have problems
with India because of the contiguity of their borders. The disputes emanated
either from India’s decision to build dams on the rivers, or from India’s
interference in the internal affairs of those countries. India’s criticism on the
dismissal of Prime Minister of Nepal by the king describing it ‘a severe blow
democracy’ was a case in point.
Bangladesh, already embittered over India’s river diversion plan, was
dismayed when Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed his inability
to attend the 13th SAARC Summit, which was scheduled to be held at Dhaka,
on the pretext of security concern in Dhaka, and the situation obtaining, in
neighbouring Nepal. The SAARC summits have been postponed at least five
times in the past due to unilateral decision by India. The problem is that
India’s population is many times more than the populations of other six
countries of the region put together. However, if Iran and Afghanistan were
accepted in SAARC’s fold it would tend to reduce the asymmetry to some
extent. Should China become member of the SAARC, it would help restoring
the sense of proportion so far as India is concerned.
There is a perception that India’s lust for big power status clouds the
prospects of unity among the South Asian nations. India, therefore, has to
improve its image and give practical demonstration that it will deal with other
nations on the basis of equal sovereignty. India, indeed, is a huge country with
a billion population and a sound industrial base. Since India would benefit
most from cooperation, it should take initiative in resolving its disputes with
the neighbours and give practical demonstration to deal with them respecting
their sovereignty. It goes without saying that all the countries would benefit
from mutual trade and cooperation and also from the import and export of
their products. They are likely to save tremendous sums because if they import
from Europe they have to pay higher prices and extra freight due to longer
distances. Some political analysts are of the view that Iran and Afghanistan
have excellent relations with India, which is in a way good for the region, but
82 IPRI Factfile
Pakistan has some genuine concerns with regard to India’s RAW operating
from those countries to destabilise the adjacent Pakistani provinces. Having
said all, if Iran and Afghanistan become members of the SAARC, they would
contribute towards creating balance in the organisation.
With their presence, India might change its attitude otherwise it is
likely to stand exposed. As the story goes, China would also like to join
SAARC, and if that could happen it would present a different scenario, and
the things could move towards creating a union on the pattern of European
Union. But India will have to resolve the issues with all the neighbouring
countries including the Kashmir dispute with Pakistan.
Foreign Affairs Pakistan, Vol. XXXII, Issue, III, pp.300-303, March 2005
P AKISTAN AND C ENTRAL A SIA

With the opening up of the Central Asian Republics, the whole geo-political
scenario has changed. The Central Asian Republics have become more
importance now, in the strategy of the world. Although Central Asian States
are land-locked and dependent on other regional partners for export purposes
but still all eyes are set on central Asian States. The Caspian Sea in Central Asia
contains the world’s largest untapped oil and gas resources. Countries such as
India, Pakistan and Afghanistan welcomed new millennium with redefined
goals and objectives. All of these three countries are getting close to Central
Asian States and they geared up their trade.
Although Pakistan’s ties with Central Asia have gathered strength
since the independence of the Central Asian Republics and Pakistan was
among the first few countries to recognize these States and establish
diplomatic missions there but Pakistan’s links to Central Asia go back to
ancient times. The historical movement of people between Central Asia and
South Asia has contributed to Pakistan’s ethnic and cultural outlook. The
centuries old ties of shared culture, growing potential for a multi-dimensional
cooperation and geographic proximity give Central Asia a distinctive place in
Pakistan’s foreign policy. This finds ample reflection in our exchanges of high
level visits with these brotherly countries. President of Kazakhstan Nursultan
Nazarbayev visited Pakistan in June 1992. President of Uzbekistan Islam
Karimov visited Pakistan in August 1992. President of Tajikistan Imomali
Rehmanov visited Pakistan in April 1994. President of Turkmenistan
Superamurad Nizyov visited Pakistan in August 1994. Former President of
Kyrgyzstan Askar Akayev visited Pakistan in early 2005. In these visits of
different years, a number of agreements have been signed covering the areas as
trade and tourism, cultural and economic cooperation. Pakistan has also
developed institutionalized arrangement to promote cooperation in the
economic and commercial fields. Moreover, Joint Economic Commissions
(JECs) have been established with all the Central Asian States. Under a Special
Technical Assistance Programme (STAP) initiated in 1992-3 Pakistan provided
training facilities, which are fully funded. The Program includes courses
ranging from English language, banking and accountancy to diplomacy.
Exchange of high-level visits has been an important aspect of relations
between Pakistan and the Central Asian Republics. These have contributed to
better understanding and closer cooperation. Pakistan wishes to keep up the
momentum.
Pakistan’s relations with the Central Asian Republics have made good
progress during the past few years. With improved regional security after the
fall of the Taliban, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan and Pakistan have decided to
push ahead with plans for the ambitious 1,500-kilometre-long gas pipeline.
The leaders of the three countries have signed a framework agreement (The
Trans Afghanistan Pipeline). The Trans-Afghanistan pipeline would export
Turkmen gas (from Dualtabad gas field) via Afghanistan to Pakistan, from
where it could reach world markets. Proponents of the project see it as a
modern continuation of the Silk Road. The Asian Development Bank is the
leading coordinating partner. It has, in addition to financial and technical
assistance, played an important role in integrating efforts to realize the project.
It is also hoped such a project would boost regional economic ties and pave
the way for further foreign investment.
Pakistan is also offering Central Asian Republic’s access to sea
through Gwadar Port. Priority is also given to road and rail links and related
facilities for a more effective and mutually beneficial access to Central Asia.
Development of transport and communications network linking Pakistan to
Central Asia is still in progress. The laying of railway tracks from
Turkmenistan to Pakistan via Afghanistan is an important part of it. Another
quadrilateral agreement between Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
provides transit trade facility through Karakoram Highway. Murghab Kulma
Road from Tajikistan to China linking by Karakoram Highway to Pakistan is
also a good step. It will boost the transit trade between Pakistan and the
Central Asia.
Pakistan and Central Asian States are also the members of Economic
Cooperation Organization; it provides a good opportunity for the Heads of
State and Government to meet. Bilateral meetings on the sidelines offer a
closer focus on bilateral relations. In the early 1990’s the Pakistani dream of a
common market through ECO did not materialize due to continued instability
in Afghanistan. On the other hand Pakistan’s overall trade with the Shinghai
Cooperation Organization is around $2 billion. Pakistan’s combined trade with
the rest of the Central Asian States is merely $26m. Now it is expected that
Shinghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) will promote the free flow of trade
merchandise. Pakistan has also played a role of an observer in SCO. Central
Asian Republics such as Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan played a useful role in
84 IPRI Factfile
helping Pakistan’s entry into the SCO. Uzbekistan’s fight against Muslim
Terrorism and quest for port facilities become the cause to support Pakistan’s
membership and an esteemed partner. Tajikistan had some reservations about
Pakistan’s entry due to alleged support to militancy.
Anyhow, in a series of meetings in February 2006 with Chinese
officials and media, the President of Pakistan Pervez Musharraf argued in
favour of Pakistan’s qualifications to join the organization as a full member. In
turn President Musharraf was formally invited in the sixth summit of SCO to
take place in Shinghai, in June 2006. This will provide leverage for opening up
of bilateral and multilateral cooperation with the Central Asian Republics.
Ms Sarwat Rauf, Pakistan Observer, 13 April 2006,
<http://pakobserver.net/200604/13/Articles04.asp?txt=Pakistan%20and%
20central%20Asia>
U ZBEKISTAN : P RESIDENT K ARIMOV C OURTS P AKISTAN TO

B OOST S ECURITY , T RADE
Uzbekistan's president, Islam Karimov, today concludes his first official trip to
Pakistan in 14 years. Relations have been strained in recent years by Uzbek
perceptions that Islamabad is not doing enough to fight suspected terrorists,
including remnants of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) in remote
regions of Pakistan. Business and trade were the subject of many of the
agreements signed during this visit, but security and counterterrorism have not
been far from the surface.
PRAGUE, May 3, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- Much of the current tension
between Uzbekistan and Pakistan surrounds the IMU -- which Karimov
regards as a major threat to Uzbek security. Hundreds of fighters from the
IMU are believed to have settled in Pakistan's tribal region of Waziristan after
the downfall of the hard-line Taliban in neighboring Afghanistan in late 2001.
Pakistani security forces hunting Al-Qaeda fighters have since killed or
captured a handful of IMU militants, and some IMU loyalists have been
extradited to Uzbekistan. But IMU leader Tahir Yuldosh -- one of
Uzbekistan's most-wanted fugitives -- is thought to be alive and hiding in
Pakistan.
Uzbek authorities have also complained that their Pakistani
counterparts do not grant them access to dead or captured Uzbek militants.
Karimov and Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf discussed security on May
2, and they signed an agreement on combating terrorism.
On New Delhi's Heels

Ahmed Rashid is a Pakistani-based expert on Central Asia and terrorism. He
suggested Karimov probably raised concerns about IMU encroachments and
related security issues with Pakistani officials. Rashid also said he thinks the
timing of Karimov's visit -- one week after talks with Indian Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh -- is significant. "I am sure the Indians must have given him
a lot of intelligence regarding that [counterterrorism], because there is a proxy
war -- or a battle, at least -- going on between India and Pakistan," Rashid said.
"There is a great of deal of tension between India and Pakistan regarding
Afghanistan and Central Asia."
Rashid said Pakistan is motivated by its rivalry with India and its
desire for access to Central Asian markets. Islamabad would also like to re-
direct Central Asian trade flows through Pakistani ports. "Musharraf is very
keen to improve relations with Central Asia," Rashid said. "The first thing is
that he wants to offset the Indian influence in Central Asia. India [will have] an
air base in Tajikistan. It has very close relations with all the Central Asian
states. It's buying up oil, gas, and drilling rights in Kazakhstan [and] in
Azerbaijan. At the moment, certainly, Pakistan has very poor relations with the
Central Asian republics."
Karimov's Charm Offensive

The Uzbek president is keen to demonstrate that the Uzbek leadership has not
been weakened by the souring of relations with the West. He has consistently
rejected U.S. and European Union calls for an independent probe into his
government's deadly crackdown in Andijon a year ago. Karimov evicted U.S.
troops from Uzbek soil in late 2005. The European Union has introduced a
weapons embargo and an entry ban for 12 senior Uzbek security officials.
President Karimov has been traveling extensively since Andijon. He
went to China last year, recently visited Kazakhstan, Russia, and South Korea,
and hosted the Indian prime minister in Tashkent in April.
Karimov's delegation in Pakistan includes his ministers of foreign
affairs, justice, finance, and foreign trade, as well as his central-bank chief.
Getting Down To Business

Pakistani President Musharraf highlighted common goals in the areas of trade
and investment.
"On the bilateral trade side, we showed mutual desire to enhance our
trade, commercial, and economic relations -- which at the moment are
extremely low," Musharraf said. "We expressed a mutual desire of developing
communication linkages between our two countries through road and rail
network, and we offered openly the use of our communication network in
Pakistan and our ports at Gwadar and Karachi for the access of Uzbek trade
and interaction with the world."
A Pakistani Foreign Ministry information officer, Nadeem Hotiana,
told RFE/RL that the two sides signed nine agreements in all. They include
86 IPRI Factfile
deals on bilateral trade, small and mid-size business, and agriculture -- in

addition to the counterterrorism agreement.
Uzbek President Karimov called his meeting with Musharraf wide-
ranging, and "open and constructive." With both men eager to open avenues
of dialogue and boost their influence in the region, even the slightest thaw
relations is likely to be viewed positively from Islamabad and Tashkent.
(RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan correspondent Najib Aamir and
Uzbek Service correspondent Farruh Yusupov contributed to this report.)
Gulnoza Saidazimova
<http://www.rferl.org/featuresarticle/2006/05/4B240D75-0485-49E1-
83A3-91E29BE566CD.html>
P AKISTAN V ALUES H IGH ITS T IES WITH

U ZBEKISTAN - P AKISTANI S PEAKER
Speaker National Assembly Chaudhry Amir Hussain has said that Pakistan
values high its relations with Uzbekistan and both countries have same stance
on all important regional and international issues.
Speaker National Assembly observed this in a meeting with President
of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov on Wednesday. During the meeting they
discussed matters of mutual interest and exchanged views on different aspects
of the ties between two countries. He said that two countries have similar
history, culture, religion and geography and both the countries are having deep
interest in promoting peace in the region. The Speaker expressed hope that Mr
Karimov's visit to Pakistan will bring two countries closer. The economies of
both the countries can flourish by increasing cooperation and mutual exchange
of experiences in all sectors of the economy, he said. The Speaker said that
Pakistan and Uzbekistan wanted peace in Afghanistan and curb terrorism for
the promotion of regional and bilateral cooperation in all sectors of the
economy. He noted that President Pervez Musharraf's vision of enlightened
moderation has helped in removing the west's misconception against Pakistan
and Islam.
The Speaker also apprised the Uzbek President about strengthening
of democratic institutions in Pakistan, empowerment of women and masses at
the grass root level through the local bodies. He underlined the need for
strengthening of democratic institutions through enhanced interaction
between the parliamentarians and intellectuals of the two countries and sharing
their experiences. Speaking on the occasion, President of Uzbekistan said that
bilateral ties between the two countries will be strengthened with every passing
day.
He appreciated the economic progress and stability achieved by
Pakistan during the past few years. Mr Karimov said that there exists similarity
in may aspects of life and intuitions of two countries. He underlined the need
for increased interaction between the people of Uzbekistan and Pakistan for
economic cooperation. Uzbek President also emphasized the need for
exchanging more Parliamentary delegations between two countries. He
underlined the importance of Gawadar port for Uzbekistan and the whole
central Asian States besides its advantages for Pakistan. Mr Karimov also
appreciated President Musharraf's vision of enlightened moderation and said
that he enjoys high profile image beyond the boundaries of Pakistan.
Turkish Weekly, 4 May 2006
<http://www.turkishweekly.net/news.php?id=31204>
U ZBEK P RESIDENT K ARIMOV V ISITS P AKISTAN

Uzbekistan’s President Islam Karimov arrived in Pakistan on May 2, 2006, for a two-day
official visit. Ministers for foreign affairs, justice, finance and foreign trade along with the
head of the central bank of Uzbekistan accompanied him. During the visit, both sides
expressed their desire to expand bilateral commerce and economic relations. President
Karimov also voiced support for Pakistan’s long time efforts to attain full membership of the
SCO. President Musharraf announced that Pakistan would develop rail and road links
with the Uzbekistan as part of its efforts to take bilateral trade to new levels and also
provide access to Uzbekistan to the world markets through its ports.
Background: Diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan were
established on May 10, 1992, and as a result Pakistan established its embassy in
Tashkent in June 1992. Pakistan had an early interest, sending a 23-member
delegation to Uzbekistan in December 1991. Relations have not been
unproblematic, though. In the mid-1990s, the issue of Afghanistan was a
rough edge in the formation of mutually beneficial relations, and Islam
Karimov often accused Pakistan of designs on Central Asia given its support
for the Taliban movement. Now, in the context of establishing durable peace
and promoting regional trade, both countries have common objectives of
peace and stability in Afghanistan.
In addition, the Uzbek President has expressed admiration for
President Musharraf’s vision of enlightened moderation as a way out of
international turmoil. On reciprocal basis, Uzbekistan supports the Kashmiri’
right of self-determination as set out in the relevant UN Security Council
resolutions, while Pakistan has made a point of keeping the Human Rights
issue out of its dialogue with Uzbek officials.
Uzbekistan and Pakistan view each other as valuable neighbors and
are trying to forge improved bilateral trade, commercial and cultural relations.
Uzbekistan views Pakistan as a large South Asian state, which possesses huge
economic, political and military potential. Some analysts also see the latest visit
as an effort to extend bilateral defense cooperation.
88 IPRI Factfile
Pakistan, for its part, is not interested in merely becoming a pipeline

or trade route for Central Asian States, but it is interested in developing trade,
economic and political partnership, including in the defense field. Therefore
Pakistan is pursuing a two-fold policy towards Uzbekistan. Firstly, it is forging
economic cooperation by improving bilateral relations, and secondly through
the common platforms of various organizations such as the ECO, SCO etc.
President Musharraf expressed the mutual desire to develop road and rail links
and the use of its seaports to develop commerce with other regions of the
world.
President Karimov signed four agreements and six Memoranda of
Understanding with Pakistan, including an agreement on cooperation in small
and private entrepreneurship, a MoU on trade, economic and investment
cooperation, an agreement on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, an
MoU on cooperation in customs and foreign trade, a protocol on cooperation
in combating terrorism, an agreement on cooperation between the Chambers
of Commerce and Industry of the two countries, an agreement on cooperation
in the field of plant quarantine, an MoU on cooperation in food, agriculture
and livestock, and finally, an MoU on cooperation between the Tashkent
Islamic University and the International Islamic University of Islamabad.
Implications: There is a great potential of expansion of trade, economic, and
cultural interaction between the two countries, yet Uzbekistan remains heavily
dependent on Russia, which is its biggest trading partner. Russia provides
almost 58 per cent of Uzbekistan’s imports and is the recipient of almost 61
per cent of Uzbek exports. Since Uzbekistan is pursuing a policy of
diversification, due to its strategy of ‘transition to a mixed economy’, there are
vast areas in which the two states can cooperate and lay the foundation of
mutually beneficial economic and political relations. For instance, Uzbekistan
is the fourth largest cotton producer in the world, and the second largest
exporter after the U.S. Therefore Pakistan can help Uzbekistan export cotton,
which it already does. In 1998, Pakistan imported cotton for US$53 million
from Uzbekistan, when total imports equaled $72 million. This figure fell to
$8.7 million in 2000, and lately rose by over 50 per cent during 2005.
Uzbekistan is the only country in Central Asia to produce many metals,
aircraft, cars, motors, cotton-picking machines and other agricultural
technology, cable products, excavators, cranes and lifts, and equipment for the
textile and cotton-cleaning industries and weaving machines. Uzbekistan has
sixty times more natural gas than does Pakistan. Another sphere of mutual
relations is the potential construction of a gas pipeline.
Pakistan and Uzbekistan are also looking for Defense cooperation,
hence Uzbekistan has offered the sell or lease aircraft IL-76 and IL-114 aircraft
for civil aviation to Pakistan. Now both states are looking for cooperation in
the field of defence and security. They have already signed an extradition treaty
during January 2001. Therefore Pakistani forces have apprehended Uzbek
terrorists during military operations in Wana, Waziristan and handed them

over to Uzbek officials. Pakistan even agreed upon intelligence sharing with
Uzbekistan to deal with the financial linkages of terrorists. Pakistan has several
times expressed its willingness to curb terrorism and cooperate with Central
Asian states through the SCO platform. President Karimov has assured Mr.
Musharraf that his country will support the Pakistan’s pledge for the full
membership in the SCO.
Conclusions: Improved bilateral relations with Uzbekistan are on the priority
list of Pakistani decision makers. As an export route, Pakistan’s importance for
the international energy market could imply deeper international interest in its
stability and security. Uzbekistanis looking at Pakistan as reliable security
partner after the bitter denouement of its ties with U.S.
The economies of Pakistan and Uzbekistan are complementary. For
instance, Uzbekistan can supply gas, electricity, cotton and such minerals as
copper, gold, iron, chromium and lead to Pakistan, while in return Pakistan
can supply textiles, cement, medicines, shoes, machinery, garments, military
and telecommunication equipments. Uzbekistan has the fifth largest gold
deposits in the world and ranks seventh in gold production. Barter trade
among them is being discussed to save their foreign exchange. ‘Human capital’
is another area of cooperation as Uzbekistan can provide Pakistan with
educated human capital. In comparison with Pakistan’s literacy rate,
Uzbekistan has a more than 95 percent literate population, including more
than 900 PhDs. Pakistan can also provide Uzbekistan with technological help
and skilled labour. It can also offer education and training facilities to Uzbek
students, technocrats and military personnel. However, to boost bilateral trade,
they both need to conclude trade agreements, including provisions for tax
exemptions, on a reciprocal basis. That could include establishing business and
trade houses, banks, insurance groups, professional services and helping each
other towards the development of communication links. Central Asia has been
termed a potential annual market of US$80 billion. If Pakistan secures only
five per cent of that market, it could earn up to US$4 billion per year.
A project of more immediate interest and practicality was the opening
of a Pakistani Commercial Bank in Tashkent. The NBP (National Bank of
Pakistan) representative office was set up in 1995 in Tashkent but it could not
facilitate the opening of a branch till 2005, though the government of
Uzbekistan had granted a license for the purpose in 1992. If both states really
want to move forward, then such bureaucratic delays need to be avoided.
Despite the political will to improve relations they both need infrastructure
and economic support to implement their agenda of cooperation.
Asma Shakir Khawaja, 31 May 2006
<http://www.cacianalyst.org/view_article.php?articleid=4244&SMSESSION=NO>
90 IPRI Factfile
K AZAKHSTAN
Background: Native Kazakhs, a mix of Turkic and Mongol nomadic tribes
who migrated into the region in the 13th century, were rarely united as a single
nation. The area was conquered by Russia in the 18th century, and Kazakhstan
became a Soviet Republic in 1936. During the 1950s and 1960s agricultural
"Virgin Lands" program, Soviet citizens were encouraged to help cultivate
Kazakhstan's northern pastures. This influx of immigrants (mostly Russians,
but also some other deported nationalities) skewed the ethnic mixture.
Area: total: 2,717,300 sq km
land: 2,669,800 sq km
water: 47,500 sq km
Land boundaries: total: 12,012 km
border countries: China 1,533 km, Kyrgyzstan 1,051 km, Russia 6,846 km,
Turkmenistan 379 km, Uzbekistan 2,203 km
Climate: continental, cold winters and hot summers, arid and semiarid
Terrain: extends from the Volga to the Altai Mountains and from the plains
in western Siberia to oases and desert in Central Asia.
Natural resources: major deposits of petroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore,
manganese, chrome ore, nickel, cobalt, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc,
bauxite, gold, uranium
Geography - note: landlocked; Russia leases approximately 6,000 sq km of
territory enclosing the Baykonur Cosmodrome; in January 2004, Kazakhstan
and Russia extended the lease to 2050.
Population: 15,233,244 (July 2006 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 66.89 years
male: 61.56 years
female: 72.52 years (2006 est.)
Ethnic groups: Kazakh (Qazaq) 53.4%, Russian 30%, Ukrainian 3.7%, Uzbek
2.5%, German 2.4%, Tatar 1.7%, Uygur 1.4%, other 4.9% (1999 census)
Religions: Muslim 47%, Russian Orthodox 44%, Protestant 2%, other 7%
Languages: Kazakh (Qazaq, state language) 64.4%, Russian (official, used in
everyday business, designated the "language of interethnic communication")
95% (2001 est.)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 98.4%
male: 99.1%
female: 97.7% (1999 est.)
Government type: republic; authoritarian presidential rule, with little power
outside the executive branch
Capital: Astana; note - the government moved from Almaty to Astana in
December 1998
Independence: 16 December 1991 (from the Soviet Union)

Executive branch: chief of state: President Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV
(chairman of the Supreme Soviet from 22 February 1990, elected president 1
December 1991)
Economy - overview: Kazakhstan, the largest of the former Soviet republics
in territory, excluding Russia, possesses enormous fossil fuel reserves and
plentiful supplies of other minerals and metals. It also has a large agricultural
sector featuring livestock and grain. Kazakhstan's industrial sector rests on the
extraction and processing of these natural resources and also on a growing
machine-building sector specializing in construction equipment, tractors,
agricultural machinery, and some defense items. The breakup of the USSR in
December 1991 and the collapse in demand for Kazakhstan's traditional heavy
industry products resulted in a short-term contraction of the economy, with
the steepest annual decline occurring in 1994. In 1995-97, the pace of the
government program of economic reform and privatization quickened,
resulting in a substantial shifting of assets into the private sector. Kazakhstan
enjoyed double-digit growth in 2000-01 - 9% or more per year in 2002-05 -
thanks largely to its booming energy sector, but also to economic reform, good
harvests, and foreign investment. The opening of the Caspian Consortium
pipeline in 2001, from western Kazakhstan's Tengiz oilfield to the Black Sea,
substantially raised export capacity. Kazakhstan also has begun work on an
ambitious cooperative construction effort with China to build an oil pipeline
that will extend from the country's Caspian coast eastward to the Chinese
border. The country has embarked upon an industrial policy designed to
diversify the economy away from overdependence on the oil sector by
developing light industry.
Currency (code): tenge (KZT)
http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/kz.html
K YRGYZSTAN
Background: A Central Asian country of incredible natural beauty and proud
nomadic traditions, Kyrgyzstan achieved independence from the Soviet Union
in 1991. Nationwide demonstrations in the spring of 2005 resulted in the
ouster of President Askar AKAYEV, who had run the country since 1990.
Subsequent presidential elections in July 2005 were won overwhelmingly by
former Prime Minister Kurmanbek BAKIYEV. Current concerns include:
privatization of state-owned enterprises, expansion of democracy and political
freedoms, reduction of corruption, improving interethnic relations, and
combating terrorism.
92 IPRI Factfile
Area: total: 198,500 sq km

land: 191,300 sq km
water: 7,200 sq km
Climate: dry continental to polar in high Tien Shan; subtropical in southwest
(Fergana Valley); temperate in northern foothill zone
Terrain: peaks of Tien Shan and associated valleys and basins encompass
entire nation
Geography - note: landlocked; entirely mountainous, dominated by the Tien
Shan range; many tall peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude lakes
Birth rate: 22.8 births/1,000 population (2006 est.)
male: 64.48 years
Ethnic groups: Kyrgyz 64.9%, Uzbek 13.8%, Russian 12.5%, Dungan 1.1%,
Ukrainian 1%, Uygur 1%, other 5.7% (1999 census)
Religions: Muslim 75%, Russian Orthodox 20%, other 5%
Languages: Kyrgyz (official), Russian (official)
Government type: Republic
Capital: Bishkek
Independence: 31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
Executive branch: chief of state: President Kurmanbek BAKIYEV (since 14
August 2005);
Economy - overview: Kyrgyzstan is a poor, mountainous country with a
predominantly agricultural economy. Cotton, tobacco, wool, and meat are the
main agricultural products, although only tobacco and cotton are exported in
any quantity. Industrial exports include gold, mercury, uranium, natural gas,
and electricity. Kyrgyzstan has been progressive in carrying out market
reforms, such as an improved regulatory system and land reform. Kyrgyzstan
was the first CIS country to be accepted into the World Trade Organization.
Currency (code): Soms
<http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/kg.html>
T AJIKISTAN
Background: Tajikistan became independent in 1991 following the breakup
of the Soviet Union, and it is now in the process of strengthening its
democracy and transitioning to a free market economy after its 1992-1997 civil
war. There have been no major security incidents in recent years, although the
country remains the poorest in the former Soviet sphere. Attention by the
international community in the wake of the war in Afghanistan has brought
increased economic development assistance, which could create jobs and
increase stability in the long term. Tajikistan is in the early stages of seeking
World Trade Organization membership and has joined NATO's Partnership
for Peace.
land: 142,700 sq km
water: 400 sq km
Land boundaries:
total: 3,651 km
border countries: Afghanistan 1,206 km, China 414 km, Kyrgyzstan 870 km,
Uzbekistan 1,161 km
Climate: midlatitude continental, hot summers, mild winters; semiarid to
polar in Pamir Mountains
Terrain: Pamir and Alay Mountains dominate landscape; western Fergana
Valley in north, Kofarnihon and Vakhsh Valleys in southwest
Natural resources: hydropower, some petroleum, uranium, mercury, brown
coal, lead, zinc, antimony, tungsten, silver, gold
Irrigated land: 7,220 sq km (2003)
Geography - note: landlocked; mountainous region dominated by the Trans-
Alay Range in the north and the Pamirs in the southeast; highest point, Qullai
Ismoili Somoni (formerly Communism Peak), was the tallest mountain in the
former USSR
Population growth rate: 2.19% (2006 est.)
male: 62.03 years
female: 68 years (2006 est.)
Ethnic groups: Tajik 79.9%, Uzbek 15.3%, Russian 1.1%, Kyrgyz 1.1%,
other 2.6% (2000 census)
Religions: Sunni Muslim 85%, Shi'a Muslim 5%, other 10% (2003 est.)
Languages: Tajik (official), Russian widely used in government and business
male: 99.6%
female: 99.1% (2003 est.)
Government type: Republic
Capital: Dushanbe
Independence: 9 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
Currency (code): Somoni
Economy - overview: Tajikistan has one of the lowest per capita GDPs
among the 15 former Soviet republics. Only 6% of the land area is arable;
cotton is the most important crop. Mineral resources, varied but limited in
amount, include silver, gold, uranium, and tungsten. Industry consists only of a
large aluminum plant, hydropower facilities, and small obsolete factories
94 IPRI Factfile
mostly in light industry and food processing. The civil war (1992-97) severely
damaged the already weak economic infrastructure and caused a sharp decline
in industrial and agricultural production. Even though 64% of its people
continue to live in abject poverty, Tajikistan has experienced steady economic
growth since 1997, but experienced a slight drop in its growth rate to 8% in
2005 from 10.6% in 2004. Continued privatization of medium and large state-
owned enterprises would further increase productivity.
<http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/ta.html>
T URKMENISTAN
Background: Annexed by Russia between 1865 and 1885, Turkmenistan
became a Soviet republic in 1924. It achieved its independence upon the
dissolution of the USSR in 1991. President Saparmurat NIYAZOV retains
absolute control over the country and opposition is not tolerated. Extensive
hydrocarbon/natural gas reserves could prove a boon to this underdeveloped
country if extraction and delivery projects were to be expanded. The
Turkmenistan Government is actively seeking to develop alternative petroleum
transportation routes in order to break Russia's pipeline monopoly.
land: 488,100 sq km
Climate: subtropical desert
Terrain: flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes rising to mountains in the
south; low mountains along border with Iran; borders Caspian Sea in west
Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, sulfur, salt
Geography - note: landlocked; the western and central low-lying, desolate
portions of the country make up the great Garagum (Kara-Kum) desert, which
occupies over 80% of the country; eastern part is plateau
male: 58.43 years
Ethnic groups: Turkmen 85%, Uzbek 5%, Russian 4%, other 6% (2003)
Religions: Muslim 89%, Eastern Orthodox 9%, unknown 2%
Languages: Turkmen 72%, Russian 12%, Uzbek 9%, other 7%
male: 99.3%
female: 98.3% (1999 est.)
Capital: Ashgabat
Independence: 27 October 1991 (from the Soviet Union)

Executive branch: chief of state: President and Chairman of the Cabinet of
Ministers Saparmurat NIYAZOV (since 27 October 1990, when the first
direct presidential election occurred); note - the president is both the chief of
state and head of government.
Economy - overview: Turkmenistan is a largely desert country with intensive
agriculture in irrigated oases and large gas and oil resources. One-half of its
irrigated land is planted in cotton; formerly it was the world's tenth-largest
producer. Poor harvests in recent years have led to an almost 50% decline in
cotton exports. With an authoritarian ex-Communist regime in power and a
tribally based social structure, Turkmenistan has taken a cautious approach to
economic reform, hoping to use gas and cotton sales to sustain its inefficient
economy. Privatization goals remain limited.
Currency (code): Turkmen manat (TMM)
<http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/tx.html>
U ZBEKISTAN
Russia conquered Uzbekistan in the late 19th century. Stiff resistance to the
Red Army after World War I was eventually suppressed and a socialist republic
set up in 1924. During the Soviet era, intensive production of "white gold"
(cotton) and grain led to overuse of agrochemicals and the depletion of water
supplies, which have left the land poisoned and the Aral Sea and certain rivers
half dry.
Area: Total: 447,400 sq km
land: 425,400 sq km
water: 22,000 sq km
Land boundaries: total: 6,221 km
border countries: Afghanistan 137 km, Kazakhstan 2,203 km, Kyrgyzstan 1,099
km, Tajikistan 1,161 km, Turkmenistan 1,621 km
Climate: mostly midlatitude desert, long, hot summers, mild winters; semiarid
grassland in east
Terrain: mostly flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes; broad, flat intensely
irrigated river valleys along course of Amu Darya, Syr Darya (Sirdaryo), and
Zarafshon; Fergana Valley in east surrounded by mountainous Tajikistan and
Kyrgyzstan; shrinking Aral Sea in west
Natural resources: natural gas, petroleum, coal, gold, uranium, silver, copper,
lead and zinc, tungsten, molybdenum
Geography - note: along with Liechtenstein, one of the only two doubly
landlocked countries in the world
96 IPRI Factfile

male: 61.19 years
Ethnic groups: Uzbek 80%, Russian 5.5%, Tajik 5%, Kazakh 3%, Karakalpak
2.5%, Tatar 1.5%, other 2.5% (1996 est.)
Religions: Muslim 88% (mostly Sunnis), Eastern Orthodox 9%, other 3%
Languages: Uzbek 74.3%, Russian 14.2%, Tajik 4.4%, other 7.1%
male: 99.6%
female: 99% (2003 est.)
Capital: Tashkent (Toshkent)
Independence: 1 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
Executive branch: Chief of state: President Islom KARIMOV (since 24 March
1990, when he was elected president by the then Supreme Soviet)
head of government: Prime Minister Shavkat MIRZIYAYEV (since 11 December
2003)
cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers appointed by the president with approval of the
Supreme Assembly
elections: president elected by popular vote for a seven-year term (previously
was a five-year term, extended by constitutional amendment in 2002); election
last held 9 January 2000 (next to be held in 2007); prime minister, ministers,
and deputy ministers appointed by the president
Economy – overview: Uzbekistan is a dry, landlocked country of which 11%
consists of intensely cultivated, irrigated river valleys. More than 60% of its
population lives in densely populated rural communities. Uzbekistan is now
the world's second-largest cotton exporter and fifth largest producer; it relies
heavily on cotton production as the major source of export earnings. Other
major export earners include gold, natural gas, and oil. Following
independence in September 1991, the government sought to prop up its
Soviet-style command economy with subsidies and tight controls on
production and prices.
Currency (code): Uzbekistani soum (UZS)
http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/uz.html
CENTRAL ASIA
@ 1999 MAGELLAN Geographixsm (805) 686-3100www.maps.com

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Pakistan and Central Asian States (1992-2006) 1

P AKISTAN AND C ENTRAL A SIAN S TATES

1. Pakistan Tracing Back Ties with Central Asia 1

13. Report on Prime Minister’s Visit to Turkmenistan

21. Report on Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister’s Call on the Prime Minister

29. Report onTajikistan President’s Visit to Pakistan

31. Pak-CAR Relations: Future Outlook

32. Appraisal of the Visit of the Prime Minister to Tajikistan

39. A Profile of Central Asian States

The Central Asian States (CAS), i.e., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan,

31 May 2006 Noor ul Haq

P AKISTAN : T RACING B ACK T IES WITH C ENTRAL A SIA

astronomy to Central Asia. The contribution made by the people of

Relations between these regions were also strained because of

C ENTRAL A SIA ' S P AKISTAN C ONNECTION

ridden and Persian-speaking country under Russian tutelage, Turkmenistan is a

I NAUGURAL A DDRESS BY M R . A KRAM Z AKI

The emergence of independent states in Central Asia is a veritable watershed.

independent as a result of the collapse of the Soviet Union and not as an

G EO —P OLITICS OF C ENTRAL A SIA

There is a desire in Pakistan that the Economic Cooperation Organization

into security organization takes enough time and reconciliation of diverse

fundamentalism. So also is the government of Tajikistan under Sultan

P AKISTAN AND T HE C ENTRAL A SIAN S TATES

Kyrgistan, Tajikstan, Turkmanistan and Uzbekstan. Pakistan demonstrated its

importance to the imperatives of economic cooperation and cultural affinities.

a meeting of the heads of the member States of the ECO in Turkmenistan

I MPACT OF C ENTRAL A SIA ON P AKISTAN ’ S F OLK

M ILITARY I MPACT OF C ENTRAL A SIA ON N ORTHWEST

Turkish Rule in the Subcontinent:

The British Supremacy

The Cold War Period and Afterwards

R EPORT ON A B RIEF V ISIT OF T HE P RESIDENT OF

President Nazarbayev who made a brief stopover of three hours in Islamabad

Speaking on the occasion, Acting President Wasim Sajjad said “ever

F OREIGN M INISTER ’ S A DDRESS TO T HE T ASHKENT S EMINAR

Consular Relations must be fully respected.

differences and resolve their problems amicably.

R EPORT ON T HE T ALKS BETWEEN P RIME M INISTER B ENAZIR

R EPORT ON A V ISIT OF T HE C HAIRMAN OF T HE M EJLIS

The Chairman of the MejIis of Turkmenistan Mr. Muradov Sahat Nepesovich

Call on Chairman Senate:

Mr. Ashyrov Saprmamed and Head of the Managing Department of Cabinet

Call on Speaker National Assembly

lunch in the honour of Turkmenistan visiting delegation.

R EPORT ON S IGNING OF P AK -C HINA -K AZAKH -K YRGYZ

On July 6, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyz Republic signed a Protocol

According to the agreement the Goods-in-Transit shall be processed

J OINT P RESS S TATEMENT I SSUED AT T HE C ONCLUSION OF

Mr. Boris Shikhmuradov, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of

choose freely their own political and economic systems.

Accord to further develop such projects signed between Turkmenistan,

T EXT OF P AK -K AZAK J OINT S TATEMENT I SSUED ON THE

The President of the Republic of Kazakstan Nursultan Nazarbaev and the

• The Parties will cooperate closely to promote peace, disarmament

President of the Islamic

R EPORT ON V ISIT OF T HE F OREIGN M INISTER ,

situation in Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Kamilov called for accelerating

R EPORT ON V ISIT OF P RIME M INISTER M UHAMMAD N AWAZ

E CONOMIC C OOPERATION B ETWEEN P AKISTAN AND T HE

to supply U.S.S.R. enterprises. The logic behind the independence decree of

At the same time Turkmen president Saparmurad Niazov is pursuing

Central Asia's physical isolation and continued access mainly through