Kyrgyzstan Expert Highlights New Avenues for Kyrgyzstan-Pakistan Cooperation at Institute of Regional Studies
Islamabad: Mr. Alibek Mukambaev, a distinguished Expert on International Development and Senior Administrative Assistant at the Organization for Security Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), delivered a compelling lecture at the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS). His talk was part of the IRS’s renowned Eminent Speaker Series, focusing on the evolving dynamics of Business-to-Business (B2B) and People-to-People (P2P) contacts between Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan.
Drawing on his deep expertise in regional development and international cooperation.
Mr. Mukambaev highlighted the untapped economic potential between the two countries and proposed strategic initiatives to revitalize bilateral trade, which he noted remains significantly below its potential.
He emphasized the need to enhance existing trade houses and establish new ones to serve as platforms for sustained commercial engagement. He also pointed to the strategic role of Kashgar—a Chinese city proximate to both nations—as a regional trading hub that can serve to accelerate multilateral business activity.
A key recommendation from Mr. Mukambaev was for Pakistani businesses to consider Kyrgyzstan as a gateway for expansion into Central Asia, proposing it as a viable alternative to Russia for setting up companies and facilitating broader market access. This, he argued, would not only reduce logistical and regulatory hurdles but also foster greater economic resilience and diversification for Pakistan.
“Stronger B2B and P2P ties are crucial for transforming historical goodwill into concrete economic outcomes,” he stated, calling for policy-level dialogue, targeted investment, and increased academic exchange to underpin this emerging partnership.
The talk was well-received by scholars, diplomats, and industry experts in attendance, sparking a lively Q&A session that underlined growing interest in regional connectivity and South-Central Asia cooperation.
The Institute of Regional Studies continues to serve as a vital forum for thought leadership and dialogue on issues critical to Pakistan’s foreign policy and regional engagement.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
