A. M. Shahid (Former Ambassador): Kazakhstan is a very important and influential country of Central Asia. Southern China wants to connect to Russian Federation through Pakistan and Central Asia and Kazakhstan is a key link in this connectivity. Pakistan and Kazakhstan share many issues of common interest including promotion of trade, counter terrorism, counter narcotics and other areas.CASA-1000 and other projects with Central Asian nations are very important to meet the energy needs of Pakistan.

Dr. Farooq Adil (Political Analyst): Central Asian states are our close neighbors. These countries are blessed with rich natural resources. Kazakhstan has strong industry and they produce solar panels, mobile phones and many other industries.Pakistan can provide sea access to Central Asian nations that are land-locked. In return, Pakistan can benefit from natural resources and industrial cooperation from Central Asian states. Pakistan can act as a bridge between South and Central Asia.