Pakistan and Uzbekistan are set to dismantle significant barriers to bilateral commerce, with high-level officials announcing plans to fast-track pharmaceutical certifications, launch direct flights, and establish new banking channels following a pivotal cooperation meeting on Monday.
The major policy shifts were revealed during the 8th Session of the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Cooperation Review Meeting, aimed at accelerating efforts to achieve a USD 2 billion trade volume as directed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The session was chaired by the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan.
Attended by Uzbekistan’s Ambassador Alisher Takhtayev and representatives from government bodies and the business community, the dialogue focused on resolving practical impediments to economic integration. Ambassador Takhtayev reiterated that connecting Central and South Asian markets remains a core objective for his country.
The pharmaceutical sector was identified as a key area for growth, with Uzbek officials expressing admiration for Pakistan’s manufacturing capabilities. However, they noted that certification delays for Pakistani medicines were a significant hurdle. In response, Mr. Khan announced the formation of a joint committee to resolve these regulatory bottlenecks swiftly.
Aviation connectivity emerged as another critical topic. The Uzbek Ambassador conveyed a strong interest in establishing direct flights between Karachi and Uzbekistan to bolster trade and tourism. Mr. Khan confirmed that the Prime Minister had instructed that direct air links commence “at the earliest,” highlighting Uzbekistan’s potential as a transit gateway between the Gulf and Europe.
Financial transaction barriers were also directly addressed. The State Bank of Pakistan gave assurances that technical difficulties hampering trade would soon be resolved. In a significant development, Haroon Akhtar Khan announced that the National Bank of Pakistan will open a branch in Uzbekistan to facilitate financial operations for businesses in both nations.
The SAPM also emphasized the need for provincial governments to actively participate in joint projects, urging them to capitalize on new opportunities arising from the enhanced cooperation.
Discussions reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to improving land and railway connectivity, with the Trans-Afghan Railway Project described as a potential “game-changer” for regional integration. The meeting concluded with a mutual resolve to deepen economic ties and consolidate a long-term strategic partnership.