Pakistan and Uzbekistan moved closer on trade cooperation on Thursday after officials from both sides met in Islamabad, where they discussed business, connectivity and future plans, and agreed to work toward a trade target of two billion dollars in three years, Haroon Akhtar said.
Pakistan, Uzbekistan agree on $2 billion trade target
The talks were held during the tenth session of the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Inter Governmental Commission where senior officials gathered to review the bilateral relations and also to discuss about what more can be done. After the meeting the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar briefed the reporters and said working groups have been formed to promote cooperation in the certain sectors which are priority right now.
He said they have also laid down a plan of action for future cooperation, though he did not go into detail, adding that the goal is to reach two billion dollars in trade in the next three years. “Our goal is two billion in three years,” he said.
Connectivity and sector-wise cooperation discussed
Both the sides discussed connectivity between Pakistan and Uzbekistan through the route of Afghanistan, Haroon Akhtar stated, This Afghanistan route could help open up trade routes and reduce costs for the two countries. Although progress is slow, there has already been some movement with business delegations exchanged in pharmaceuticals, textiles and leather.
In his remarks, the Uzbek Minister for Industries, Trade and Investment said his country is committed to working closely with Pakistan for promotion of cooperation and achieving targets set for different sectors. He said Uzbekistan sees Pakistan as an important partner and wants stronger economic engagement.
Cooperation at regional and international forums were also discussed which reinstated the importance of staying connected at different levels matters. Both sides agreed that continuous engagement is necessary and that the working groups will keep meeting to monitor progress and fix issues.
The meeting came at a time when both countries are looking for new markets and new partners. Officials said that improving the exports of the country, building connections and increasing business exchanges is very crucial at this time. While challenges still remain, both the sides said the session ended on a positive note and with commitments to follow up on the discussions and push forward on agreed plans in the future.
Source: Radio Pakistan