Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM), Haroon Akhtar Khan, on Thursday held a meeting with the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, Alisher Tkhakayev, to discuss enhancing industrial cooperation and bilateral trade between the two countries.

During the meeting, Haroon Akhtar Khan emphasized that the relationship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan is deeply rooted in shared religion, history, and culture.

He mentioned that for centuries; the people of both countries have contributed to each other’s intellectual and cultural development. ‘Pakistan was one of the first countries to recognize Uzbekistan’s independence,’ remarked Haroon Akhtar Khan.

He highlighted the historical bond between the two nations. The discussion also covered various areas of potential collaboration, with both sides agreeing to explore joint ventures in diverse sectors, including automobiles, industry, surgical equipment, mining, and public-level relations.

The SAPM noted that Pakistan and Uzbekistan are committed to advancing trade, investment cooperation, and fostering stronger ties between their citizens.

‘We are keen to explore new avenues of cooperation in the automobile industry, mining, surgery, and public relations,’ the SAPM said.

He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has tasked him with finding pathways to boost collaboration in sectors such as processing operations, mining, and railways.

He reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to enhancing bilateral ties with Uzbekistan. The envoy, in his remarks, expressed admiration for the rapid growth of Pakistan’s IT sector and commended the progress made in technology.

He also proposed fostering cultural exchanges through joint productions in drama and film, which would further strengthen the cultural relationship between the two nations.

Haroon Akhtar Khan emphasized that both countries are focused on increasing bilateral trade, with a target to raise trade volume to 2 billion, as outlined by the Prime Minister.

‘We are committed to strengthening public-level relations and brotherly ties with Uzbekistan,’ he concluded.