Pakistan, Uzbekistan explore new avenues for trade, connectivity

KARACHI: Pakistan has invited Uzbek investors to establish display centres in the country and explore opportunities in its motorway and communications sectors, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, Federal Minister for Privatization, Board of Investment, and Communications Abdul Aleem Khan said during a meeting with Uzbek Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev on Monday.

The minister emphasised the historical, cultural and religious connections between the two nations, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to boosting trade and cooperation with Uzbekistan. He highlighted the potential for Uzbek tourism companies to expand into Pakistan and proposed joint ventures in infrastructure development, including motorways.

The meeting also discussed the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Uzbekistan, scheduled next month -- a trip seen as pivotal in enhancing mutual relations. Both sides acknowledged the importance of high-level exchanges between government leaders and ministers in fostering stronger economic and cultural ties.

Khan suggested that Uzbekistan could facilitate Pakistani travellers en route to Europe and the US by offering on-arrival tourist visas for 48 to 72 hours at Uzbek airports, a move aimed at enhancing people-to-people connectivity.

He further stressed the need to improve land connectivity, rail networks and air travel between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, noting that enhanced infrastructure would significantly bolster economic and cultural relations. The minister highlighted the deep attachment of Pakistanis to cities like Samarkand and Bukhara, calling for accelerated efforts to develop road and communication networks linking Central Asia.