Islamabad: Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema chaired a high-level meeting to review preparations for the forthcoming visit of Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister, Jamshid Khodjayev, set for July 20-21, 2026. The meeting assessed inter-ministerial coordination and finalized arrangements to ensure the visit’s success, aiming to strengthen economic and trade relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting saw participation from senior officials, including Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, Secretary Foreign Affairs Amna Baloch, and Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul. Discussions focused on enhancing regional connectivity and trade facilitation, with proposals to improve trade routes, transport corridors, and logistics infrastructure.

The meeting also highlighted the organization of a Business-to-Business Forum during the visit, with over 100 Uzbek companies expected to participate, reflecting growing interest in investment and trade opportunities in Pakistan. Key sectors of interest include agriculture, pharmaceuticals, industry, and logistics.

Minister Ahad Cheema expressed satisfaction with the preparations, noting that the visit would mark a significant milestone in the partnership between the two nations. He anticipates the signing of a Five-Year Roadmap for Trade and Economic Cooperation, which will provide a framework for expanding trade, investment, and connectivity.

Consensus has been reached on several Memorandums of Understanding and agreements to be signed during the visit, aimed at enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors. Concluding the meeting, Minister Cheema directed all relevant ministries and departments to ensure seamless coordination and timely completion of all arrangements, emphasizing the visit’s potential to deepen economic ties and promote mutual growth.