New Air Route Marks Strategic Step in Regional Connectivity
The establishment of a direct aircraft route between Uzbekistan and Karachi this year is a major step forward in the two countries’ bilateral relations, according to Alisher Tukhtaev, Uzbekistan’s ambassador to Pakistan. The ambassador made the statement while meeting with important trade and business organizations during his official visit to Karachi, which took place from January 2–4.
Growing Economic Partnership Enhances Regional Connectivity
The new flight route announcement comes amid strengthening economic ties between the two nations. Recent developments include:
- A substantial $1 billion trade deal signed in 2023
- Trade volume tripling from $122 million in 2019 to $387 million in 2023
- Implementation of a soft visa regime for Pakistani citizens in September 2023
- Launch of direct flights between Tashkent and Lahore
Enhanced Business Facilitation for Regional Connectivity
The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) were among the business organizations Ambassador Tukhtaev visited with during his visit. He highlighted a number of important areas for possible cooperation and underlined Uzbekistan’s dedication to fostering an atmosphere that is conducive to bilateral commerce and investment:
- Textiles
- Pharmaceuticals
- Leather and tannery
- Food processing
- Agribusiness
Future Initiatives Supporting Regional Connectivity
The ambassador revealed plans for a “Made in Uzbekistan” industrial show in Karachi later this year, building on the success of the “Made in Pakistan” exhibition that took place in Tashkent in June. By offering a platform for companies from both nations to investigate fresh prospects, this program seeks to further solidify economic connections.
Investment Opportunities Bolstering Regional Connectivity
KCCI representatives were invited by Ambassador Tukhtaev to travel to Uzbekistan to investigate investment opportunities in Bukhara, Sirdarya, Surkhondarya, and Kashkadarya, among other locations. To assist these efforts, the Uzbek Embassy has pledged to facilitate business-to-business (B2B) and government-to-business (G2B) engagements.
Cultural and Religious Bonds in Regional Connectivity
The ambassador highlighted the two countries’ historical and fraternal links as well as their common religious and cultural interests. It is anticipated that these ties, together with better transportation and economic collaboration, will further solidify the two countries’ bond.
Regional Connectivity Vision
“Our two nations are closer than ever, thanks to the realization of the long-awaited vision of regional connectivity,”
the ambassador stated, underlining the strategic importance of enhanced transportation links between the two countries.
An important step towards achieving this goal of better regional connectivity is the launch of the new direct aircraft route to Karachi. Increased trade, tourism, and cultural interchange between Uzbekistan and Pakistan are anticipated as a result of this development, as both countries have shown a strong commitment to growing their economic connection.