The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Pakistan marked the 33rd anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence with a diplomatic reception in Islamabad.
Hosted by Ambassador Oybek Arif Usmanov, the event celebrated not only Uzbekistan’s independence from Russia but also 32 years of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan. Distinguished guests, diplomats, and military officials attended the reception, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
Uzbekistan Ambassador vows to strengthen strategic ties with Pakistan
Ambassador Usmanov, in his address, highlighted the deepening cooperation between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, calling the two countries “genuine partners” with a relationship elevated to the level of a strategic partnership. Over the last three years, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has strengthened ties with Pakistani leaders, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, through trade, technological projects, and active military cooperation, the Ambassador said.
Uzbekistan’s economic achievements include a 6.4% GDP growth in 2024, with foreign direct investments rising by 37%, amounting to $22 billion. Uzbekistan’s foreign trade turnover with 186 countries grew by 8.5%, reaching $45 billion in exports.
The Ambassador also emphasized ongoing initiatives between the two countries, including 74 bilateral agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at further boosting economic diplomacy. Notably, the trilateral Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan railway project is seen as a “game-changer” for regional connectivity. A new project office was established in Tashkent, and a trilateral meeting was recently held in Islamabad to advance the feasibility studies and construction of the railway, which promises to link the region more efficiently.
Pakistani Commerce Minister hails growing ties
Pakistan’s Commerce Minister, Jam Kamal, the chief guest at the event, celebrated the longstanding historical and cultural bonds between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. He highlighted Uzbekistan’s role as a crucial trading partner for Pakistan in Central Asia, noting Uzbekistan’s status as the first Central Asian country to sign both a Transit Trade Agreement and a Preferential Trade Agreement with Pakistan. These agreements have allowed Uzbek traders to utilize Pakistani ports, boosting bilateral trade, which has grown significantly over the past three years.
Minister Kamal praised the success of the “Made in Pakistan Exhibition” held in Tashkent in June 2024, where 85 Pakistani companies showcased their products to hundreds of Uzbek businessmen. The exhibition, organized by Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce, aimed to foster stronger trade relations between the two nations.
Looking ahead, the Commerce Minister urged entrepreneurs from both countries to seize the opportunities presented by this growing relationship. “Despite challenges, the trade relationship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan will continue to grow steadily,” he said, calling for increased public and private sector engagement.
The bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan has reached half a billion dollars, with plans to double this figure in the coming years, thanks to joint transit and logistics agreements. The Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan railway project was highlighted as a transformative initiative that promises to enhance regional connectivity and unlock further economic potential.
“In Tashkent new project office was established and recently the Government of Pakistan (Ministry of Railways) hosted in Islamabad trilateral meeting of the project office. Three countries have signed the Protocol upon the feasibility studies, financing and construction of this game changer project”, according to Minister Jam Kamal.