Tashkent: In an effort to deepen bilateral relations and expand strategic partnerships, Pakistan’s Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Mr. Haroon Akhtar, visited Uzbekistan. This visit follows the vision laid out by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and builds upon his previous visit to Uzbekistan in February. Accompanying Mr. Akhtar were representatives from the State Bank of Pakistan, National Bank of Pakistan, SIFC, and the Ministry of Industries and Production.

During his visit, Mr. Akhtar met with Uzbekistan’s Prime Minister, Mr. Abdullah Aripov. The discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in key areas such as connectivity, banking, trade, and commerce. Mr. Akhtar conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Sharif and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the timely launch of the Trans-Afghanistan Railway Project.

To bolster trade and banking relations, Mr. Akhtar highlighted Pakistan’s intention to open a branch of the National Bank of Pakistan in Uzbekistan. He also expressed interest in expanding the list of items included in the Preferential Trade Agreement and explored opportunities for Pakistani investment in Uzbekistan, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector.

Prime Minister Aripov welcomed the visit and conveyed greetings to Pakistan’s leadership. He emphasized the importance Uzbekistan places on its relationship with Pakistan and reviewed progress on key bilateral issues. Both sides agreed to sustain high-level interactions to further strengthen their ties.

The visit underscores a mutual commitment to enhancing economic collaboration and strengthening diplomatic relations, paving the way for future strategic ventures between the two nations.