ISLAMABAD, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has highlighted the significant potential for increasing bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, suggesting that it could surpass one billion dollars as a short-term goal.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, during an interview with an Uzbek TV channel, PM Kakar pointed out several areas of mutual interest that could benefit both nations. He emphasized the strength of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry and the vast consumption market in Uzbekistan and other regional countries, suggesting this as a key area for collaboration.

Kakar also mentioned Uzbekistan’s potential role as a transit route for further exports. The two countries are actively working on developing these critical areas.

The Prime Minister also praised the enthusiasm of the Uzbek President towards the proposed Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan railway network. This ambitious connectivity project, which is being discussed with the World Bank and other regional entities, promises mutual benefits for all involved countries.

In response to another query, Kakar underscored the historical and cultural connections between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. He advocated for more direct air, rail, and road linkages to strengthen these ties and bring the people of both countries closer. The Prime Minister also noted the shared linguistic elements between the Urdu and Uzbek languages, symbolizing the deep-rooted cultural affinity between the two nations.