By: Nurullo Rasulov (Uzbekistan)

_________

Te geo-economic convergence of Central and South Asia is gaining momentum, with Uzbekistan and Pakistan playing a pivotal role in fostering trade and investment relations. This partnership carries both economic and strategic significance for both nations. On February 25–26, at the invitation of Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will embark on an official visit to Uzbekistan. This visit aims to address key economic and strategic issues, strengthening bilateral cooperation. To gain deeper insights into the visit and the growing ties between the two nations, we spoke with the Ambassador of Pakistan to Uzbekistan, His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Farooq.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

HE Ahmed Farooq, Ambassador of Pakistan to Uzbekistan: “The primary objective of the Prime Minister’s visit is to deepen the fraternal and friendly relations between our nations. Our relationship has always been strong and continues to evolve positively. During this visit, the two leaders will discuss ways to enhance connectivity, boost economic cooperation, and strengthen people-to-people ties. These discussions will provide a foundation for both governments to further deepen this important relationship.”

Expanding Trade and Investment

With a population of 250 million, Pakistan has made significant strides in industry, information technology, and agriculture. Its strategic location and access to sea routes make it a crucial trade corridor for both South and Central Asia. Consequently, Uzbekistan is keen to expand trade and investment relations with Pakistan. Khusan Rakhimov, Chief Specialist at the Department for Cooperation with South Asia and Türkiye at Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade, emphasized the growing economic partnership: “In the past five years, trade turnover between our countries has tripled, reaching $400 million. The number of enterprises with Pakistani capital in Uzbekistan has also tripled, now totaling 126, including 20 joint ventures and 106 foreign enterprises.” According to the Statistics Agency of Uzbekistan, Pakistan ranks among the top ten importers of Uzbek goods. Key exports include food and non-food products, services, chemicals, and raw materials, while imports primarily consist of food products and services. Looking ahead, both nations aim to increase trade volume to $1 billion. The Preferential Trade Agreement between Uzbekistan and Pakistan facilitates this goal by granting preferential terms for 17 product categories.

Enhancing Connectivity and Logistics

A key factor in strengthening external trade is the development of transport and logistics infrastructure. Under Pakistan’s “Vision Central Asia” strategy, major projects are being implemented to improve connectivity across the region. HE Ahmed Farooq elaborated: “Historically, Pakistan and Central Asia share deep-rooted ties, dating back centuries. Figures like Muhammad Zahiriddin Babur, Amir Temur, Imam Bukhari, and Imam Termiziy are revered in Pakistan as much as in Uzbekistan. Trade and cultural exchanges have long linked our regions. Pakistan’s ‘Vision Central Asia’ strategy seeks to revive historical ties and act as a bridge between regions, ensuring economic benefits for all. Given its geographical position, Pakistan aspires to become a hub for energy and commerce transit in the region.” The Ambassador further highlighted Uzbekistan’s crucial role in this vision: “As the largest country in Central Asia, Uzbekistan is emerging as the region’s economic hub. It seeks to enhance connectivity and expand trade routes to the sea. Uzbekistan’s participation is vital in driving regional integration, fostering economic cooperation, and achieving the goals of Pakistan’s ‘Vision Central Asia’ strategy.”

Conclusion

The growing cooperation between Uzbekistan and Pakistan is not only mutually beneficial but also essential for the broader economic development of Central and South Asia. With a shared history, strategic collaboration, and forward-looking initiatives, both nations are well-positioned to boost trade, investment, and regional growth. Nurullo Rasulov International Relations Journalist