ISLAMABAD: Pakistan desires an early implementation of CASA-1000 power project — a project of regional energy cooperation among Tajikistan, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan — Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif told Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon Thursday.

The project will enable Pakistan to import 1,000MW of electricity to meet its growing energy needs

Pakistan and Tajikistan signed a number of agreements aimed at broadening bilateral cooperation in the areas of trade, energy and connectivity.

Addressing a joint press conference alongside the Tajik president, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said Tajikistan and Pakistan share brotherly relations and the latter serves as a gateway to Central Asian states.

He expressed satisfaction that bilateral trade between the two countries has risen from $15 million in 2011 to $89 million in 2014.

President Rahmon said the visit of Tajikistan delegation to Pakistan is a sign of thriving bilateral relations between the two countries.

The two sides earlier held delegation level talks in Islamabad today to explore ways to promote bilateral cooperation in various fields, Radio Pakistan reported.

Also read: Power project, bilateral cooperation to be discussed during Tajik president's visit

The two delegations discussed ways to enhance cooperation in energy, security, trade, cultural and communication fields. They exchanged views to increase contacts on people-to-people basis between the two countries and exchange of delegations. They also discussed matters relating to counter-terrorism and controlling human and drug smuggling.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said Pakistan wants strong trade and economic relations with Tajikistan.

He said Pakistan wants an early implementation of CASA-1000 project, which is an important project to help overcome energy shortage in the country. He said Pakistan wishes to increase ground and air contacts with Tajikistan.

The premier said Pakistan gives extreme importance to its relations with Central Asian Republics.

Read: Tajik president arrives

On the occasion, Tajik President stressed the need for enhancing people-to-people contacts between the two countries.

The two leaders also held one on one meeting and exchanged views on bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest.

Earlier, President Rahmon was received by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for an official reception at the Prime Minister House.

A guard of honour was presented in honour of the Tajik President.