Islamabad, 8 September 2024 (TDI): The Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Pakistan celebrated the 33rd anniversary of its Independence Day on Saturday in a graceful ceremony where the Chief Guest was Pakistan’s Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal.
The ceremony was attended by ambassadors, diplomats, dignitaries, and members of civil society.
The event also commemorated 32 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Speaking on the occasion, Jam Kamal, the chief guest at the event, underlined the long-standing historical and cultural bonds shared between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
“It is a great pleasure and profound honour for me to participate in the Independence Day celebrations,” the minister said, highlighting the heartfelt gratitude of the Government and people of Pakistan to their Uzbek counterparts, highlighting the special and unique relationship nurtured by centuries of shared history and cultural ties.
Speaking on occasion, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Pakistan Arif Usmanov congratulated the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, and Pakistan’s armed forces for their all-out support in building cooperation between the two sides.
He has also highlighted the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation between the two nations and especially mentioned the ongoing collaboration on regional connectivity. He said that the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railways project would boost bilateral and regional trade and become a bridge between South and Central Asia.
It is important to note that the railway project, spanning 760kms, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027, with the capability to transport up to 15 million tonnes of goods annually by 2030. This rail link will notably decrease cargo delivery time between Uzbekistan and Pakistan by around five days while slashing transportation costs by at least 40 percent.
“Partnerships are not just partnerships but strategic partnerships.”
The Ambassador said, reflecting on nine personal interactions between Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Pakistan leadership in the last three years at each other’s side.
Both leaders expressed optimism for the future, with Minister Jam Kamal reiterating his commitment to deepening the economic ties between the two nations. “Despite challenges, there will be steady, gradual, but persistent growth in Pakistan-Uzbekistan trade, with enhanced public and private sector engagement,”. he said.
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries, diplomats, and military officials, marked a new chapter in the flourishing relationship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
