Pakistan and Uzbekistan have set a shared objective to expand bilateral trade to two billion dollars, a commitment reinforced by the immediate addition of two new weekly direct flights to enhance connectivity between the nations.
The pronouncements were made during a high-level meeting in Islamabad between President Asif Ali Zardari and his Uzbek counterpart, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, where both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening their strategic partnership, according to an official report today.
President Zardari conveyed Pakistan’s commitment to elevating the relationship through closer cooperation in trade, connectivity, defence, and security. He highlighted the significance of regional transport initiatives, such as the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway Project, and called for collective efforts to overcome any remaining challenges.
Noting the steady growth in trade volumes in recent years, the Pakistani President stressed the necessity of realising the relationship”s full economic potential. He also advocated for enhanced collaboration and facilitation between the financial institutions of both countries, including banks, to better support trade and investment flows.
President Mirziyoyev reciprocated the sentiment, stating that Uzbekistan attaches great importance to its friendship with Pakistan. He expressed satisfaction with the expansion of bilateral contacts, the increase in joint ventures, and the implementation of cooperative projects, directing his concerned minister to coordinate with their Pakistani counterpart to further these efforts.
The Uzbek leader emphasised the need for expanded practical cooperation through stronger economic ties and more active business exchanges. In a tangible step to facilitate this, he announced that the number of weekly direct flights would increase to six, aiming to further boost people-to-people contacts, tourism, and commerce. He also extended an official invitation to President Zardari to visit Uzbekistan.
The discussions also encompassed the regional situation, with both heads of state exchanging views on matters affecting peace, stability, and security. The leaders first held a private tête-à-tête before engaging in an extended meeting with their respective delegations.
Following the official talks, President Zardari conferred the Nishan-e-Pakistan, the nation”s highest civilian honour, upon President Mirziyoyev. The award was presented during a Special Investiture Ceremony in recognition of the Uzbek President’s contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.
The ceremony and a subsequent state banquet were attended by high-profile dignitaries including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, federal cabinet members, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, parliamentarians, and members of the diplomatic corps.