ISLAMABAD: The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E. Yerzhan Kistafin, has concluded his five-year mission in Islamabad, marking the end of a period that significantly strengthened bilateral ties between the two brotherly nations. During his tenure, Kazakhstan and Pakistan broadened their cooperation agenda, with a series of high-level exchanges underscoring the growing partnership. DNA
Among the milestones were the visits of Prime Minister of Pakistan H.E. Shehbaz Sharif to Astana in 2022 and 2024, and the historic first-ever visit of Prime Minister of Kazakhstan H.E. Olzhas Bektenov to Islamabad in 2024. Other landmark visits included Speaker of the Mazhilis of Kazakhstan’s Parliament H.E. Yerlan Koshanov in 2022, Field Marshal H.E. Asim Munir to Astana in April 2025, and Foreign Minister H.E. Murat Nurtleu’s official trip to Islamabad in September 2025.
Institutionally, six Joint Working Groups were established, while the Joint Intergovernmental Commission and Joint Business Council gained momentum. The culmination of these efforts came in February 2026, when President of Kazakhstan H.E. Kassym- Jomart Tokayev paid the first state visit to Pakistan since 2003. The visit resulted in the signing of a landmark Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership, outlining priority areas for future cooperation.
Ambassador Kistafin expressed heartfelt gratitude to the leadership and people of both countries, as well as his team at the Embassy, for their tireless efforts in advancing bilateral relations. “Serving in Pakistan was a great blessing of Allah Almighty. Pakistan has become a second home to me, and I will always cherish its stunning nature, hospitable people, and friendly environment,” he said.
He emphasized that the end of his mission is not a conclusion but “the beginning of a brand-new chapter in bilateral and regional cooperation.” In his farewell note, he wished the people of Pakistan peace, prosperity, and progress, affirming his belief in the nation’s tremendous potential.
Closing his message with the words “Kazakhstan and Pakistan Dosti Zindabad,” Ambassador Kistafin highlighted the enduring spirit of friendship between the two nations.
