Islamabad, Feb 6 — Pakistan and Uzbekistan have announced their intention to increase bilateral trade to $2 billion by 2029, following discussions between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his two-day state visit to Islamabad.
Both leaders emphasized on the need to strengthen trade, economic relations, and industrial cooperation during the discussion. They agreed on plans to establish joint management of economic and industrial zones in each country which is a move that is expected to boost investment and create opportunities for businesses on both the sides. The two also confirmed that they will organize the first Forum of Regions later this year in Uzbekistan which will allow regional governments and private sector representatives to engage directly.
Apart from economics the leaders discussed in detail about their shared cultural and historical ties. While talking about the centuries-old legacy of the Silk Road they emphasized preserving cultural heritage, promoting language connections between Urdu and Uzbek and also expanding academic exchanges.
Media cooperation was another key focus of the visit. Both sides welcomed progress under the 2022 Broadcasting Agreement and highlighted joint projects like the documentary Mushtarak Dillar. They agreed to further exchange content, support journalist visits, and participate in cultural initiatives such as Uzbekistan’s “Pearl of the Silk Road” International Film Festival.
Security and defense cooperation also featured prominently in the talks. The leaders expressed readiness to work together to fight terrorism, separatism, extremism, and drug trafficking. They underlined the importance of regular coordination between their law enforcement and intelligence agencies to ensure stability in the region.
Another area which was discussed for potential growth was tourism and both leaders agreed that more people-to-people contact would strengthen their ties. They also exchanged views on regional developments while stating that sustained dialogue and peaceful engagement which is in line with UN resolutions are truly essential in order to address the longstanding issues and promote stability in South and Central Asia.
Both Sharif and Mirziyoyev talked about Afghanistan and stressed that peace and stability in the country are very important for the whole region. They also urged Kabul to take steps which are necessary to prevent any terrorist groups from using the Afghan territory to launch attacks against other countries while also highlighting that stability in Afghanistan is very important for long term security and prosperity.
Source: Radio Pakistan