PESHAWAR: Visiting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa GovernorFaisal Karim Kundi on Tuesday met his counterpart in Tajikistan’s Khatlon region, Davlatali Said, and discussed with him ways to enhance bilateral trade, investment, and tourism.

Kundi is in Tajikistan along with a high-level delegation comprising leading business and government representatives.

During the meeting, Mr Kundi and Saidemphasised the strategic proximity of Khatlon to Afghanistan and its potential benefits for economic ties with Pakistan, especially for traders and investors in Peshawar and other parts of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The KP governor highlighted the rich opportunities for commerce and investment in both countries and invited Tajikistani authorities to visit Peshawar and engage with local business communities to foster economic growth and promote tourism.

“I believe that due to the close geographical proximity between Khatlon and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, our shared religion and culture, we should consider Peshawar and Khatlon as sister regions,” he said, underscoring cultural ties and mutual interests in regional development.

The two leaders discussed the inclusion of the Khatlon region in the Casa-1000 project meant for electric supply to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. They highlighted the potentialfor increase in regional connectivity and economic stability.

Mr Said echoed those sentiments, praising Mr Kundi’s vision for trade, tourism, and economic development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He expressed eagerness for a visit to Pakistan, especially Peshawar, to strengthen bilateral relations and explore collaborative opportunities.

“Governor Kundi’s visit signifies a broader diplomatic effort to deepen ties with Tajikistan and capitalise on shared economic interests, beyond mere tourism,” he said.

The Khatlon governor said that it was expected that future exchanges and collaborative ventures would continue to strengthen regional cooperation and prosperity between Pakistan and Tajikistan.

Published in Dawn, July 3rd, 2024