Saifullah Ansar/DNA
Islamabad – On the occasion of the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence, Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev hosted a reception, celebrating the nation’s progress and its strengthening ties with Pakistan. The event, attended by Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi and other distinguished guests, showcased Uzbekistan’s economic and social achievements, underscoring its commitment to a “New Uzbekistan.”
On this occasion, the Minister joined the Ambassador of Uzbekistan and other distinguished guests in cutting the celebratory cake and extended warm felicitations to the government and people of Uzbekistan. He noted that the relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan are not confined merely to diplomacy but are deeply rooted in shared history, cultural bonds, and fraternal ties, which continue to grow stronger with mutual trust and respect.
In his remarks, the Federal Minister emphasized that there are vast opportunities for cooperation between the two countries. He highlighted that in the area of regional connectivity, railways and transport can play a pivotal role, and joint projects in these sectors could bring the two nations closer together. Similarly, in trade and investment, both sides must work collectively to expand bilateral trade volumes and create new investment avenues that can complement and strengthen each other’s economies.
In the field of energy and natural resources, collaborative initiatives can address the future needs of both nations. Furthermore, in education and culture, academic exchanges, cultural programs, and people-to-people linkages can further deepen mutual understanding and promote stronger ties between the societies of both countries. Muhammad Hanif Abbasi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to building an even closer partnership with Uzbekistan, expressing confidence that such collaboration will not only bring prosperity and development to both nations but will also contribute to peace, stability, and regional cooperation. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Federal Minister held constructive discussions with the Ambassador of Uzbekistan and other distinguished dignitaries, exchanging views on matters of mutual interest and exploring avenues of future cooperation.
In a move to create more jobs, Uzbekistan has focused on developing its industrial base. Industrial output has more than doubled since 2017, reaching $70 billion, shifting the nation from a raw material exporter to a hub for modern industry. The country’s gold and foreign exchange reserves have also reached a new high, surpassing $48 billion. The ambassador proudly announced that the national football team has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in history, symbolizing the nation’s success on a global stage.
Ambassador Tukhtaev highlighted Uzbekistan’s remarkable economic transformation under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The country’s economy has been growing at over 6% annually, with the GDP doubling to $115 billion last year and projected to exceed $130 billion in the current year. The ambassador noted a surge in foreign investment, with about $130 billion attracted over the past eight years, and an additional $35 billion this year alone.
The ambassador emphasized the strong, historic bonds between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, stating that the relationship has evolved into a true strategic partnership. He noted that the recent visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Uzbekistan was a “milestone,” which led to the signing of a Joint Declaration and the establishment of a High Council of Strategic Partnership.
A key highlight of the speech was the progress on the Trans-Afghan Railway project, a historic initiative poised to connect not only Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, but also the CIS countries with South Asia. This project is expected to create massive opportunities for regional trade and integration.
Economic relations are also on a fast track, with bilateral trade reaching $320 million in the first seven months of this year, a 126% increase from the previous year. Uzbekistan is now Pakistan’s largest trading partner in Central Asia. The leaders have set an ambitious target of reaching $2 billion in trade, with new initiatives like exhibitions, trade houses, and direct flights helping to achieve this goal. The ambassador concluded his remarks by reaffirming the deep brotherhood between the two nations, expressing confidence that their partnership will continue to grow and serve as a model for the entire region.
