PM Shehbaz congratulates Kazakhstan President on 'historic' referendum

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday congratulated Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the successful passage of a “historic constitutional referendum," according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office Pakistan.

According to Kazakhstan’s Central Election Commission, 87.15 per cent of voters supported the adoption of a new constitution. The reforms streamline parliament, reintroduce the office of vice president — abolished in 1996 — and grant the president authority to appoint key officials.

During a “warm and cordial” telephonic conversation, PM Shehbaz said the overwhelming public support reflected the trust of the people of Kazakhstan in President Tokayev’s leadership and reform vision.

He expressed confidence that the constitutional changes would strengthen governance, institutional stability, and long-term national development in Kazakhstan.

Recalling President Tokayev’s recent visit to Pakistan, the prime minister said Islamabad was actively following up on decisions taken during the trip, adding that both sides would soon meet to finalise agreements aimed at boosting cooperation.

President Tokayev also reiterated his invitation to PM Shehbaz to visit Kazakhstan later this year, which the premier accepted.

The two leaders exchanged views on regional developments, particularly the situation in Afghanistan, and stressed the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and regional connectivity for shared prosperity.

PM Shehbaz also extended Eid greetings to President Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan, wishing them continued peace and progress.

Separately, President Asif Ali Zardari also congratulated his Kazakh counterpart, noting that strong public participation in the referendum reflected citizens’ confidence in the country’s ongoing development and reform trajectory.

He reaffirmed that Pakistan values its close and brotherly ties with Kazakhstan, rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to peace, development, and cooperation.