Pakistan and Uzbekistan Strengthen Ties, Commit to Boosting Trade and Regional Connectivity

Report by Syed Farzand Ali

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and strengthening bilateral cooperation during high-level talks in Tashkent.

The two leaders agreed to increase bilateral trade volume to $2 billion within the next four years and emphasized the effective implementation of the Transit Trade Agreement (2021) and Preferential Trade Agreement (2023). Discussions focused on investment in special economic zones, business collaborations, and boosting trade, tourism, and cultural ties.

Key highlights of the meeting included:

✅ Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway Project – Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to its implementation, recognizing its strategic role in regional trade and connectivity.

✅ Tourism Cooperation – Plans to strengthen ties between Termez, Bukhara, Lahore, and Karachi to promote tourism and cultural exchange.

✅ Multilateral Cooperation – Emphasis on sustainable development, global peace, and security, with a focus on the role of the United Nations.

✅ Economic & Investment Partnerships – Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration in trade, energy, education, and defense, aiming for long-term economic stability and prosperity.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Minister for Investment and Privatization Abdul Aleem Khan, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.

President Mirziyoyev praised Pakistan’s economic progress and reiterated Uzbekistan’s commitment to deepening trade and economic ties with Pakistan for regional stability and development.