ISLAMABAD: The Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Atadjan Mavlamov called on National Security Adviser Lt Ge (r) Nasser Khan Janjua Thursday. Matters pertaining to promotion of bilateral relations, issues regarding defense cooperation and overall regional security situation came under discussion. The NSA warmly welcomed the guest and said that Turkmenistan is a brotherly Muslim country and Pakistan attached great importance to cordial and cooperative relations with Turkmenistan. Both countries have immense potential to expand the spectrum of bilateral relations. The Ambassador said that Pakistan and Turkmenistan share historic, cultural and religious bonds. Over the years both Pakistan and Turkmenistan had successfully developed excellent diplomatic relations. “Our leadership is keen to strengthen these ties further by extending cooperation in multiple areas including political, defense and economic sector such as trade and energy he added. The Ambassador stressed the need of increasing the momentum of bilateral meetings to strengthen cooperation. Discussing TAPI gas pipeline project, the envoy said that Turkmenistan considers Pakistan as a strategic partner for this project and is ready to cooperate more with Pakistan in energy sector. He also highlighted the fact that the two countries shared views on major regional and international issues concerning peace and security. NSA said that cooperation in energy sector is a big lead forward. “Pakistan can offer connectivity to Turkmenistan and together we can multiply our economic potential as well.” Published in Daily Times, February 9th2018.