As previously reported by Spot, Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif held talks in Tashkent.
Following the meeting, the leaders signed a joint declaration and a protocol to establish a high-level bilateral strategic partnership council. In addition, the parties concluded:
- a cooperation agreement in the fields of science, technology, and innovation;
- a visa-free travel agreement for holders of diplomatic passports;
- a cooperation agreement between the ministries of internal affairs;
- a cooperation agreement in vocational education;
- a cooperation agreement in youth policy;
- a cooperation agreement between the administrations of Tashkent and Lahore
etc.
At the joint press conference, Mirziyoyev and Sharif shared their assessments of the negotiations. The President of Uzbekistan described the visit as the beginning of a "new chapter in Uzbek-Pakistani strategic partnership."
In the near future, a meeting will be held with a delegation of leading companies from Pakistan to discuss joint plans. The importance of promoting projects in pharmaceuticals, engineering, textiles, leather, and other sectors with the export of products to third-country markets was emphasized.
One of the main topics of discussion between the leaders was the increase in the volume and range of bilateral trade. The parties paid attention to issues of industrial cooperation, transportation links, and the creation of favorable conditions for business.
Cultural and humanitarian exchanges, as well as tourism, were also highlighted. Uzbekistan and Pakistan agreed to hold culture and arts festivals and to increase tourist flows—particularly through the "Umrah Plus" pilgrimage program.
Earlier, Spot reported that the Pakistani company TCS plans to open cargo air communication between Tashkent and Karachi.