Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has sent a clear message to the Afghan interim government, urging them to prevent their soil from being used against Pakistan, as regional peace and stability are in everyone’s interest. During his two-day visit to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the Prime Minister made these remarks in a joint press conference with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. He announced an agreement to increase bilateral trade volume to $2 billion and signed agreements to enhance cooperation in various fields, including science and technology, diplomatic passports, and youth affairs.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan and Uzbekistan will facilitate investments in economic zones and connect Uzbekistan to Karachi and Lahore. He described the Trans-Afghan Railway project as a game-changer for regional development, emphasizing that it will benefit not only both countries but the entire region. He invited Uzbek investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s mining and minerals sector and highlighted the role of the business communities of both nations in strengthening bilateral ties.
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also reiterated his commitment to working together to address shared challenges. He noted that there are immense opportunities to expand trade relations between the two countries, which should be fully utilized.
During the meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Uzbek President, both leaders emphasized the need to further strengthen bilateral relations. Earlier, upon his arrival at the Congress Center in Tashkent, the prime minister was presented with a guard of honor, reflecting the warmth and mutual respect between the two nations.
The primary objective of the prime minister’s visit is to promote economic and trade relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, which will contribute to regional development and stability.
