ISLAMABAD β Pakistan and Uzbekistan have agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, industry, and connectivity, with a strong focus on the Trans-Afghan Railway Project.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, led a high-level delegation to Tashkent. The delegation included officials from the State Bank of Pakistan, National Bank of Pakistan, Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), and the Ministry of Industries.
During the visit, SAPM Khan met Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov. Both sides discussed expanding banking linkages, enhancing trade, and accelerating the launch of the Railway Project. They also reviewed proposals to open a National Bank of Pakistan branch in Uzbekistan and agreed to build on the Preferential Trade Agreement between the two nations.
Talks also focused on boosting investment in key sectors. Pakistan showed interest in Uzbekistanβs pharmaceutical industry, while both countries recognized opportunities for cooperation in mining and minerals. It was agreed to keep regular ministerial-level contacts to advance such initiatives.
Khan also visited the Techno Park in Tashkent, where he reviewed the production of electronic and household appliances. He expressed interest in joint ventures for solar water heaters, gas meters, and electric meters, highlighting the potential for energy and technology partnerships.
The SAPM stressed that Pakistan is committed to regional integration and sees the Railway Project as a vital step toward economic stability. He noted that enhanced cooperation in industry, minerals, and technology will not only benefit Pakistan and Uzbekistan but also contribute to broader regional growth.
Khan further emphasized the need to streamline licensing and certification processes for Pakistanβs pharmaceutical sector in Uzbekistan. He said this would strengthen exports and align with international standards.
By advancing the Railway Project and exploring joint industrial ventures, both countries aim to take their economic and technological collaboration to new heights.
In other news read more about: Pakistan Signs βTransformationalβ Railway Pact with Afghanistan, Uzbekistan
