Tashkent (TDI): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, participated in Pakistan-Uzbekistan Business Forum as both countries have pledged to promote their bilateral trade from the current $400 million to $2 billion.
The commitment was made during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s two-day official visit to Uzbekistan, where he held extensive discussions with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
The talks, which included One-on-One and delegation-level meetings, focused on increasing trade, investment, connectivity, and tourism collaboration.
They also addressed a joint press conference, in which the two leaders focused on their shared vision for regional development and economic integration.
Prime Minister Shehbaz described the Trans-Afghan Railway project as a “game changer” for the region, underlining its potential to connect Central Asia with South Asia.
He assured Uzbekistan of Pakistan’s full cooperation in realizing this ambitious initiative, which is expected to boost trade and people-to-people exchanges significantly.
Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, addressed the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Business Forum in Tashkent, emphasizing enhanced trade, investment, and connectivity for shared prosperity. He highlighted the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships to unlock new opportunities. He… pic.twitter.com/npJp2hsh76
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) February 26, 2025
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The prime minister also shed light on the deep historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, expressing optimism about the future of their bilateral relationship.
In addition, both sides agreed to promote tourism by increasing flight operations and identifying new travel destinations, a move aimed at increasing greater cultural understanding and economic benefits.
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Moreover, trade houses in Karachi and Tashkent strengthen cross-border commerce, while business forums and industrial exhibitions provide collaboration platforms.
Some members of the Pakistani delegation remained in Tashkent to continue negotiations in key sectors such as energy, mining, and railway connectivity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also invited President Mirziyoyev to visit Pakistan, which the Uzbek leader accepted, signaling a mutual commitment to strengthening ties.
President Mirziyoyev described the talks as highly productive and said Pakistan as a “trusted partner.”
He announced the establishment of a High-Level Strategic Council to oversee bilateral cooperation, with ministries from both countries required to submit bi-monthly progress reports.
This institutional mechanism is expected to provide a structured framework for advancing shared goals.
The event was attended by prominent Pakistani companies, including Al-Rafique Enterprises, Mehran Dates Products, Brighto Chemicals, Transfopower Industries, FWO, T.M.C, Pakistan Mobile, and TCS, which were represented at the forum.
Their participation underlined the growing business interest in strengthening economic ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
The Forum concluded on a high note, setting the stage for deeper economic integration and mutual prosperity between the two nations.
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