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Info Desk
In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations and promote regional stability, Pakistan and Uzbekistan have signed multiple agreements aimed at enhancing economic, diplomatic, and security cooperation. This development comes as Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited Uzbekistan, meeting with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent on February 25-26, 2025. The visit marked a new chapter in their strategic partnership, with both nations committing to increase bilateral trade to $2 billion and strengthen ties across various sectors.
During the visit, Prime Minister Sharif and President Mirziyoyev oversaw the signing of several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) covering trade, technology, security, youth affairs, media cooperation, and more. These agreements underscore the two countries’ resolve to leverage their strategic positions to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth. Pakistan is keen to utilize its role as a key trade and transit hub to connect landlocked Central Asian republics to the global market, while Uzbekistan aims to expand its economic influence through increased trade and investment.
Pakistan and Uzbekistan have signed multiple agreements to enhance economic, diplomatic, and security cooperation, marking a significant step in their strategic partnership.
The establishment of a High-Level Strategic Council is a significant outcome of the visit, designed to foster deeper cooperation in economic, diplomatic, and security areas. This council will facilitate strategic dialogue and coordination on regional and international issues, allowing both countries to leverage their collective influence in promoting peace and stability in the region.
In addition to economic cooperation, Pakistan and Uzbekistan have also reiterated their support for peace in the Middle East. Pakistan has been vocal about the need for a just and lasting peace in the region, particularly in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. At the United Nations, Pakistan has urged the international community to extend the Gaza ceasefire to all occupied Palestinian territories and revive the peace process. This stance reflects Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people in their struggle for self-determination and statehood.
The visit of Prime Minister Sharif to Uzbekistan follows a series of high-level engagements between Pakistan and Central Asian states. Since last year, there has been a surge in visits, investment discussions, and economic activities between Pakistan and these nations. This surge is part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to enhance regional integration and economic prosperity by fostering greater economic collaboration and exploring new avenues of partnership.
Both nations have reiterated their support for a two-state solution in the Middle East, advocating for peace and stability in the region.
In a joint press conference, President Mirziyoyev praised Pakistan’s efforts to ensure peace and stability, improve living standards, and accelerate economic growth. He described Pakistan as a “trusted partner” with a steadily growing international reputation. Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the potential for joint projects, such as the Afghan railway connectivity, which could be a game-changer for the entire region. He also highlighted plans to expand tourism, allowing people from both countries to visit historical sites in each other’s nations.
The enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan is not just about bilateral benefits; it also reflects a broader commitment to regional stability and peace. As both countries strengthen their ties, they are setting an example of how international cooperation can foster lasting solutions to global challenges. Their support for peace in the Middle East underscores the importance of collective action in addressing regional conflicts and promoting unity among nations facing similar challenges.
The establishment of a High-Level Strategic Council will facilitate strategic dialogue and coordination on regional and international issues, further strengthening their bilateral ties.
The visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Uzbekistan marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations. The agreements signed and the commitments made reflect a shared vision for economic growth, regional stability, and peace. As Pakistan and Uzbekistan move forward in their bilateral relations, they are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of regional cooperation and promoting peace in the Middle East.
