Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari today advocated for a significant expansion in the bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan across various sectors including trade, economy, culture, and tourism. These remarks were made during a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Mr. Bakhtiyor Saidov, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, President Zardari emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, underlining their shared heritage and the importance of these connections in fostering a robust bilateral relationship. The meeting underscored the mutual interest in leveraging geographical advantages for regional connectivity, with a specific focus on enhancing trade and economic interactions.
President Zardari proposed innovative measures such as barter trade and transactions in local currencies to overcome financial barriers and stimulate business activities. He suggested the establishment of banking channels within both countries to facilitate smoother commercial exchanges and underscored the necessity of boosting people-to-people and tourism exchanges to strengthen bilateral relations.
Foreign Minister Saidov echoed the sentiment of deepening ties through a strategic roadmap that accelerates partnership benefits for both nations. He highlighted the potential improvements in bilateral ties through the development of transport corridors linking the two countries. Furthermore, Minister Saidov delivered a personal message from Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, extending warm regards to President Zardari and the people of Pakistan.
The discussions reveal a shared vision for a future where economic and cultural exchanges form the cornerstone of a strengthened partnership, promising enhanced cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.