Pak-Kyrgyz parliamentary cooperation to strengthen two democracies: Gilani
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, March 16 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday said close interaction between the parliaments of Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan would give new impetus to their relationship in diverse fields.Talking to Ahmatbek Keldibekov, Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz National Parliament, Prime Minister Gilani said regular contacts between the parliamentary delegations of two countries would help strengthen democratic norms and learn from each other’s experiences.
He noted that Kyrgyzstan had taken positive steps for establishing a parliamentary democracy by holding free and fair elections.
He said Pakistan had also come a long way in achieving democracy and restoring Constitution to its original form.
The Kyrgyz National Assembly Speaker referring to the long-standing cordial relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan said the potential of expansion in ties was still immense, which needed to be fully explored.
He termed the visit of Prime Minister Gilani an important milestone in further cementing Pak-Kyrgyz friendship and stressed the need for regular exchange of parliamentary and trade delegations.
The Kyrgyz Speaker also informed Prime Minister Gilani about the salient features of the general election system and the working of the country’s Parliament.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar, Secretary Defence Lt Gen (retd) Syed Athar Ali and President Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries Senator Ghulam Ali, Ambassador Tanvir Akhtar Khaskheli and  Schon Group’s Khizar Schon were present during the meeting.