To address the economic challenges confronting the nation, the government has been actively engaging with both official and business delegations. Pakistan’s interest in securing reliable energy sources from Central Asia has led to a focus on bolstering ties with Uzbekistan, seen as a gateway to regional markets.
Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov arrived in Pakistan for a two-day visit on Tuesday night, as confirmed by a brief statement from the foreign office. This visit comes as Islamabad strives to strengthen economic ties amidst financial challenges.
Recent engagements include a visit by a Saudi business delegation, which concluded with several business-to-business meetings aimed at exploring investment opportunities across various sectors. Subsequently, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Japanese industrialists to encourage investment in Pakistan’s electric automotive industry. Similarly, Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb engaged with international investors, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling business environment. The anticipated visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later this month is expected to bring significant investments.
The visit by the Uzbek foreign minister underscores the growing bilateral relations between the two countries and aligns with Pakistan’s objectives of enhancing regional connectivity for greater economic prosperity.
The foreign office stated that Foreign Minister Saidov will hold in-depth discussions with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on various bilateral issues, with a special focus on trade and connectivity. This visit is anticipated to inject fresh momentum into the friendly relations between the two nations.
Pakistan regards Central Asian countries as crucial partners in enhancing regional trade and energy security. Given the region’s abundant natural resources, particularly oil and gas, securing reliable energy sources is essential for Pakistan to diversify its energy imports. Uzbekistan, with its strategic geographical position and resources, serves as a crucial gateway for Pakistan to access other markets in the region.
Last year, Pakistan’s former caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar visited Uzbekistan to participate in an Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) meeting, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation and economic integra
