ISLAMABAD – Following Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s vision to strengthen strategic relations with Uzbekistan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar, visited Uzbekistan this week. His visit aimed to follow up on the Prime Minister’s trip to Uzbekistan in February and advance bilateral cooperation in trade, connectivity, and banking.
During his visit, Haroon Akhtar met with Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdullah Aripov. The discussions focused on vital areas, including the timely commencement of the Trans-Afghanistan Railway Project, expansion of trade under the Preferential Trade Agreement, and enhancing banking facilities between the two nations. Haroon Akhtar extended greetings from Prime Minister Sharif and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to fostering strong economic and industrial ties with Uzbekistan.
To facilitate smoother banking operations, Haroon Akhtar highlighted Pakistan’s intention to open a branch of the National Bank of Pakistan in Uzbekistan. He also discussed opportunities for Pakistani investments in the country, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, and encouraged cooperation in trade and commerce to benefit both nations.
Prime Minister Aripov welcomed the delegation and conveyed greetings to the leadership of Pakistan. He emphasized Uzbekistan’s commitment to deepening relations with Pakistan and reviewed progress on projects of strategic importance, including infrastructure connectivity and trade facilitation.
The visit also included meetings with representatives from the State Bank of Pakistan, National Bank of Pakistan, SIFC, and the Ministry of Industries and Production. The delegation focused on identifying areas where Pakistan-Uzbekistan collaboration can be strengthened to promote regional trade, investment, and economic growth.
Haroon Akhtar’s visit marks a significant step toward enhancing bilateral ties, expanding trade opportunities, and improving economic connectivity between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to timely implementation of agreed projects and fostering long-term strategic partnerships.
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