Uzbekistan and Pakistan Discuss Issues of Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation

Uzbekistan’s Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev held a meeting with Khalil Hashmi, Deputy Foreign Secretary of Pakistan and National Coordinator for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Affairs.

At the outset of the talks, the sides discussed the current state of Uzbekistan–Pakistan relations, prospects for their further development, the implementation of agreements reached at the highest level, as well as cooperation within the framework of the SCO.

The parties exchanged views on the current situation in the region and its impact on regional security, trade and economic cooperation, and transport connectivity between Central and South Asia.

It was emphasized that addressing regional challenges is of particular importance for strengthening connectivity between Central and South Asia.

Khalil Hashmi highlighted the bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, sustained political dialogue, and close ties of trust at the highest level. According to him, positive momentum is being observed in virtually all areas of cooperation, including trade and economic relations, transport, tourism, and interregional cooperation.

–The large-scale transformations, rapid economic development, and consistent reforms being implemented in your country under the leadership of President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev are also playing an important role in enhancing connectivity between Central and South Asia, – the Pakistani Deputy Foreign Secretary noted. – Furthermore, the historical and cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan contribute to strengthening bilateral relations.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed upcoming events to be held during Pakistan’s chairmanship of the SCO, as well as the programme of joint activities scheduled for the current year.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the sides agreed to continue active dialogue across all areas of cooperation between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.