Uzbek Ambassador Highlights Strategic Partnership and Shared Cultural Heritage at Book Launch in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD; The Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtayev delivered a comprehensive address at the presentation ceremony of the book “Uzbekistan: The Third Renaissance – Vision of the Future”, held in Islamabad.

The event was attended by diplomats, government officials, academics, and media representatives, celebrating the growing strategic and cultural partnership between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

The Ambassador began by expressing his warmth towards Pakistan, describing it as a “home among friends and brothers”. He emphasized that the ties between the two nations extend beyond trade and politics, rooted in shared cultural, spiritual, and historical bonds.

Highlighting Uzbekistan’s remarkable progress under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, he noted that over the past eight years, the country has implemented wide-ranging reforms in governance, the economy, education, and social life.

“Uzbekistan’s economy has doubled to $115 billion, with steady annual growth exceeding 6 percent,” he said, adding that the country is on track to surpass $130 billion by the end of this year.

The Ambassador also underscored the importance of Uzbekistan–Pakistan relations, describing them as “a true strategic partnership”. He highlighted the establishment of direct flights, simplified visa regimes, and the Trans-Afghan Railway Project — a landmark initiative to connect Central and South Asia through enhanced regional connectivity.

Bilateral trade has risen sharply, reaching $405 million in the first nine months of this year, with a shared target of $2 billion in the near future.

The book, authored by Pakistani journalist Muhammad Abbas Khan, was praised for capturing the essence of Uzbekistan’s modern transformation. The Ambassador expressed deep appreciation to Khan and Tahir Farooq, Editor-in-Chief of Daily Ittihad, for their contributions to strengthening ties between the two nations.

In his concluding remarks, the Ambassador reaffirmed the commitment to further cooperation based on mutual trust and friendship. “Together, we will reach new heights for peace, stability, and prosperity,” he said, concluding with, “Uzbekistan–Pakistan friendship forever.”