Pakistan, Uzbekistan Enhance Ties in Trade, Energy, Defense
The agreements signed during the visit, including those on trade, energy, and defense, demonstrate the commitment to boosting regional connectivity and cooperation. With plans to expand bilateral trade to $2 billion, the visit marks a significant step forward in strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's official visit to Uzbekistan aims to boost bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, and defense, positioning Pakistan as a key trade and transit hub for Central Asian republics. The visit follows a series of agreements signed with Azerbaijan, highlighting Pakistan's growing engagement with the region.
During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev will hold bilateral talks, focusing on enhancing trade, energy, and defense cooperation between the two countries. The two leaders are expected to sign several agreements, including those on connectivity, economic, trade, investment, energy, defense, and security. Uzbekistan, Central Asia's second-largest economy and biggest consumer market, has already signed a $1 billion trade deal with Pakistan, with plans to expand bilateral trade to $2 billion.
The visit has underscored the shared historical and cultural ties between the two countries, with a focus on deepening bilateral relations. President Mirziyoyev welcomed PM Shehbaz and his delegation, noting that the relations between the two countries have been developing dynamically. The president also invited Pakistani companies to work in Uzbekistan, offering favorable conditions. The two leaders witnessed a ceremony where several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed between the two countries in various areas.
PM Shehbaz and President Mirziyoyev agreed to establish a high-level strategic council between the two nations, with regular meetings to ensure the efficient implementation of directives. The council will have a monthly report on the implementation of instructions and measures. The prime minister's visit to Uzbekistan has reinforced the commitment to expanding collaboration across multiple sectors for shared progress and prosperity.
The visit is expected to strengthen the longstanding fraternal ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, with a focus on enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including regional stability, education, and defense. As Pakistan continues to engage with Central Asian republics, the visit highlights the country's growing role as a key trade and transit hub in the region.
