Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received a ceremonial guard of honor at the Tashkent Congress Centre on Tuesday. This marked the final day of his official visit to Uzbekistan, aimed at strengthening bilateral and trade relations. Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev personally welcomed him as both nations’ anthems played.
After the reception, the two leaders discussed regional connectivity, trade, investment, energy, defense, security, regional stability, and education. A key outcome was their agreement to increase bilateral trade to $2 billion. President Mirziyoyev noted that trade turnover had already surpassed $400 million.
To solidify commitments, both sides signed multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs). These covered visa-free travel for diplomatic passport holders, military intelligence sharing, internal affairs, and professional training. They also agreed to collaborate in science, technology, and youth affairs. A major highlight was the signing of a protocol to establish the Pakistan-Uzbekistan High-Level Strategic Council.
The visit also focused on boosting people-to-people connections. A new air route now links Tashkent and Lahore, with plans to add flights between Samarkand, Bukhara, and Karachi. These efforts aim to strengthen cultural and economic ties.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ’s delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Investment and Privatization Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi. He also visited Tashkent’s Techno Park to explore advancements in the construction industry. Additionally, he addressed the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Business Forum, where business leaders from both sides discussed trade expansion.
This visit reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to stronger ties with Uzbekistan. Through economic collaboration and strategic partnerships, both nations seek to enhance regional integration and prosperity.
