Pakistan is an important trading partner of Uzbekistan and that manifold relations between the two countries are strengthening by the passage of time. This has been stated by Ambassador of Uzbekistan H.E. Alisher Tukhtaev in his address at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry while heading a delegation comprising Commercial Consular Bakhrom Yusupov, Deputy Chairman of Chamber of Commerce and Industry Uzbekistan Safarov Khalimjon, Deputy Chairman Chemical Industry Association Tukhtaev Akorbirjon and Director Chemical Industry Association Department Davronov Sardor. Highlighting that the bilateral trade has grown up significantly by 50 to 55 percent annually over the past years from $ 50 million to $ 240 million, he happily revealed the resumption of direct flights between Tashkent and Lahore in the coming November or December which will surely give boost to ties in all the sectors. He said that different trade mechanisms including the Transit Trade Agreement are playing vital role in the development of cooperation between the two countries.

Nasir Mansoor Qureshi, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry while welcoming the delegation showcased the trade potential of Pakistan by saying that business community of the two countries must come forward and grasp these opportunities for the greater benefit of both the sides. He said that Islamabad boasts a vibrant industrial cluster, featuring pharmaceutical industries, steel re-rolling plants, and marble industries, making it an attractive destination for investors. However, the current trade volume between Pakistan and Uzbekistan falls short of its potential and needs much attention. He added that Islamabad Chamber of Commerce (ICC) aims to strengthen its ties with the Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, paving the way for enhanced business collaborations and mutual benefits. This partnership will boost a conducive environment for businessmen from both nations to explore new opportunities, facilitate trade, and promote economic growth. Commercial Consular Bakhrom Yusupov highlighted simplified visa procedures for business delegations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

Deputy Chairman Chemical Industry Association of Uzbekistan Tukhtaev Akorbirjon highlighted the attractive facilities in Uzbekistan's chemical industry including the Chemicals used in textile, oil and gas, and metallurgical industries as well nitrogen, phosphorus, potash, and complex mineral fertilizers. Deputy Chairman of Chamber of Commerce and Industry Uzbekistan Safarov Khalimjon said that by strengthening ties between the two Chambers, Uzbekistan and Pakistan can unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development. Senior Vice President Abdur Rehman Siddiqui, along with former Presidents M.Ejaz Abbasi, Mian Shaukat Masood, Zahid Maqbool and ICCI member Naeem Siddiqui also highlighted the potential for mutual economic growth and cooperation especially in tourism. Those present on the occasion also included Executive Members Zulqurnain Abbasi, Umair Abdul Nasir, Ateequr Rehman, Naveed Iqbal Satti, Chaudhry Mohammad Irfan, Rohail Anwar Butt and Ishaq Sial.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan