Tashkent: The Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, met with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan to discuss enhancing the strategic partnership between their nations. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Tashkent.

Chairman Gilani conveyed greetings from Pakistan and congratulated President Mirziyoyev on the successful organization of the IPU Assembly and Uzbekistan’s recent parliamentary elections. The leaders underscored the historical ties between the countries and committed to advancing cooperation across various domains.

The discussion highlighted the outcomes of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Uzbekistan in February 2025, which resulted in the signing of numerous Memoranda of Understanding and the establishment of a High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council. Gilani emphasized the importance of resuming direct flights between Lahore and Tashkent to foster people-to-people and business connections.

The leaders reviewed the growing political engagements between the two nations, including Bilateral Political Consultations and Joint Ministerial Commissions. Gilani stressed the need for robust inter-parliamentary cooperation and the reconstitution of Parliamentary Friendship Groups.

Trade and economic relations were a focal point, with both sides noting a significant rise in bilateral trade, reaching over USD 105 million in FY 2023-24. They set a mutual goal to expand trade to USD 2 billion in the future.

Connectivity projects like the Trans-Afghan Railway and the International Multimodal Transport Corridor were also discussed. Gilani welcomed Uzbek participation and expressed Pakistan’s readiness to advance these initiatives.

Visa facilitation was another topic of discussion. Gilani acknowledged Uzbekistan’s steps in this area and called for reciprocal measures to support trade and tourism. The recent Visa Abolition Agreement for Diplomatic Passport Holders was recognized as a positive step.

In closing, Chairman Gilani thanked the Uzbek government for its hospitality and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership for mutual and regional prosperity.