Eight working groups have been formed to accelerate Pakistan-Uzbekistan trade and economic cooperation in diverse sectors.
The decision was taken in a high-level meeting of the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Joint Working Group held in Islamabad today with Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Haroon Akhtar Khan in the chair.
The meeting reviewed progress on bilateral economic cooperation and also discussed to explore new avenues for expanding trade between the two countries.
During the meeting, participants reviewed progress on previously agreed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and discussed measures to promote trade, improve trade routes, and expand cooperation in multiple sectors.
Speaking on the occasion, Haroon Akhtar Khan said under the vision of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, a Five-Year Roadmap will be presented to significantly increase trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
He noted that the implementation of agreed protocols with Uzbekistan will also be carried out through this strategic roadmap.
Haroon Akhtar Khan reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to strengthening economic and diplomatic engagement with Central Asian states to promote regional connectivity, trade, and investment.
He emphasized that Pakistan and Uzbekistan are entering a new phase of economic partnership, opening fresh opportunities for bilateral trade and investment.
Haroon Akhtar Khan further highlighted that an alternative trade route for Uzbekistan through China could prove to be shorter and more efficient, and a comprehensive plan is currently under development.
Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in key sectors including energy, transport, agriculture, and industry. The meeting also discussed expanding regional connectivity and exploring new trade opportunities to improve access to Central Asia.
Participants stressed the importance of accelerating joint initiatives to significantly increase the volume of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul, along with representatives from various ministries and the Special Investment Facilitation Council attended the meeting.
