In a recent article published in Neutral Turkmenistan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Dr. Faryal Leghari, emphasized the importance of re-establishing direct air links between the two countries.

According to the ambassador, a two-hour direct flight between Ashgabat and Pakistan would not only provide convenient access for the over 240 million people of Pakistan to Turkmenistan, but also connect them to a wide international flight network operated by Turkmenistan Airlines — covering Europe, Russia, China, and the Asia-Pacific region.

She noted that restoring air routes would open up new opportunities in trade, medical tourism, education, and culture, while also enabling faster delivery of perishable goods such as mangoes, citrus fruits, vegetables, meat, and rice.

The article also highlights Islamabad’s “Vision Central Asia” policy, which includes plans to expand trade and transport corridors linking Turkmenistan with Pakistani ports like Karachi and Gwadar, offering greater global market access.

Additionally, Pakistan already facilitates 24-hour business visa issuance for Turkmen entrepreneurs. The textile sector is identified as a priority area for cooperation — with Turkmen cotton, yarn, and wool seen as high-potential exports to Pakistan, while Pakistani garments and finished textiles may find a market in Turkmenistan.

Cultural cooperation also receives attention, especially in the fashion industry. The ambassador pointed out stylistic similarities in traditional women’s attire in both countries, opening the door for joint design projects, exhibitions, and runway shows.