In a momentous decision, Pakistan and Uzbekistan have pledged to significantly elevate their trade volume, aiming for an impressive $4 billion within the next four years.
This landmark understanding was reached during a high-level meeting on Wednesday, between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in the vibrant city of Tashkent.
The discussions were further enriched by delegation-level talks that laid the groundwork for this ambitious goal.
Throughout this pivotal meeting, the two nations explored avenues for deeper collaboration, with a particular focus on trade, tourism, and energy. Additionally, they delved into strengthening regional and cultural ties, charting a course for mutual prosperity.
A highlight of their discussion was the commitment to implement the Transit Trade Agreement of 2021 and the Preferential Trade Agreement of 2023 with vigor. They also expressed intent to invest in the burgeoning Special Economic Zones and vowed to nurture cooperation between the thriving business communities of Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
A shared vision for enhancing connectivity was echoed with both sides reaffirming their commitment to the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway project, a cornerstone for boosting trade and regional integration.
Tourism was also a key theme, as they discussed invigorating ties between scenic destinations like Termez, Bukhara, Lahore, and Karachi, envisioning a vibrant exchange of culture and hospitality.
Resonating with a shared perspective on the dynamic global and regional landscape, the leaders underscored the pivotal role of international organizations, particularly the United Nations, in addressing global challenges to foster sustainable development and cultivate global peace and security.