Bishkek: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan during the SCO Council of Heads of State Meeting held in Bishkek. The discussion focused on enhancing bilateral trade and strategic cooperation, with an aim to increase trade to $2 billion by 2029 and advance regional connectivity projects.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting included ministers from Pakistan’s commerce, communications, and information and broadcasting sectors. Prime Minister Sharif conveyed greetings for Uzbekistan’s 35th independence anniversary, underscoring the momentum gained from President Mirziyoyev’s visit to Pakistan earlier in the year.

The leaders emphasized the need for implementing decisions on trade, investment, and economic cooperation. They particularly highlighted the importance of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway project for improved regional connectivity and trade access. Discussions also covered collaboration in various sectors, including industry, agriculture, and digital technologies, alongside efforts to enhance air connectivity with direct flights between Tashkent and Karachi.

Prime Minister Sharif acknowledged Uzbekistan’s support for Pakistan’s upcoming Chairmanship of the SCO Council and expressed intent for continued collaboration on regional security and sustainable development. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Uzbekistan to achieve economic benefits.