Joint working group reviews MoUs, explores alternative trade route through China, sectoral cooperation
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan plans to present a five-year roadmap aimed at significantly increasing trade with Uzbekistan, as both countries reviewed progress on bilateral economic cooperation and explored new avenues for expanding commercial ties.
The development came during the second session of the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Joint Working Group on Trade, held in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Industries and Production on Friday, the meeting reviewed progress on previously agreed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and discussed measures to promote trade, improve trade routes and expand cooperation in multiple sectors.
Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul and representatives from various ministries, along with officials from the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), also participated in the meeting.
During the session, participants examined developments related to bilateral economic engagement and deliberated on initiatives aimed at enhancing trade between the two countries.
Speaking at the meeting, Haroon Akhtar Khan said that a Five-Year Roadmap (2026-2030) would be presented to significantly increase trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
He noted that the implementation of agreed protocols with Uzbekistan would also be carried out through this strategic roadmap.
According to the statement, the meeting reviewed proposals designed to strengthen economic engagement and facilitate bilateral trade and investment.
Officials discussed the possibility of improving trade routes and expanding cooperation in a number of sectors to enhance commercial interaction between the two countries.
Haroon Akhtar Khan said that Pakistan and Uzbekistan were entering a new phase of economic partnership that could open opportunities for bilateral trade and investment.
To prepare sector-specific strategies, eight working groups have been established, each tasked with developing detailed roadmaps for their respective sectors.
These proposed sectoral plans were presented during the meeting for further discussion and review.
Haroon Akhtar Khan also highlighted the potential of developing an alternative trade route through China for Uzbekistan, describing it as a shorter and more efficient option.
According to the statement, a comprehensive plan for this proposed route is currently under development.
Both sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in several sectors including energy, transport, agriculture and industry.
The meeting further discussed regional connectivity and explored potential trade opportunities aimed at improving access to Central Asian markets.
Participants emphasised the importance of accelerating joint initiatives to increase the volume of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Haroon Akhtar Khan said Pakistan remained committed to strengthening economic engagement with Central Asian states to promote regional connectivity and trade.
