ISLAMABAD; The Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan highlighted the deep historical, cultural, and spiritual ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan during a special ceremony titled “Bridging Cultures: Tourism Potential of Uzbekistan.”
Addressing the event, the ambassador emphasized that Uzbekistan, situated at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road, has long been a center of Islamic scholarship, science, and art. He noted that cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva remain living symbols of shared Islamic civilization, belonging to the entire Muslim Ummah.
The ceremony also marked the appointment of Mr. Hamid Mahmood Chaudhry as Uzbekistan’s Tourism Brand Ambassador in Pakistan. The envoy described Mr. Chaudhry as a dedicated advocate for cultural exchange and tourism promotion, expressing confidence that his efforts would strengthen people-to-people relations and academic tourism between both countries.
Highlighting historical links, the ambassador recalled the contributions of great scholars and saints from Uzbekistan — including Imam al-Bukhari, Imam at-Tirmizi, Bahouddin Naqshband, and Al-Biruni — whose teachings influenced spiritual traditions in South Asia. He said the Naqshbandi order, originating in Bukhara, continues to inspire followers across Pakistan.
The envoy also announced that the ancient city of Samarkand will host the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference from October 30 to November 13, 2025 — the first time in over four decades that the session will be held outside Paris. This, he said, reflects global recognition of Uzbekistan’s cultural and scientific achievements.
In another major announcement, the ambassador shared that Uzbekistan Airways will double its Tashkent–Islamabad flights from October 28, 2025, operating twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The airline already runs two weekly flights between Tashkent and Lahore. The move aims to boost tourism, business, and cultural exchange, with affordable fares and convenient travel times.
The ambassador underscored that modern air connectivity is now complementing centuries-old spiritual and cultural bonds, making travel between the two nations faster and more accessible.
He also highlighted linguistic and cultural links, noting that Uzbek and Urdu share over 4,000 common words — a testament to deep-rooted historical connections.
In conclusion, the ambassador thanked Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Aftab ur Rehman Rana and other stakeholders for their cooperation, reaffirming that tourism, education, and intellectual diplomacy will continue to strengthen bilateral friendship.
