Pakistan and Uzbekistan have agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation between youths and promote science and technology linkages between two countries.

The bilateral ties were discussed in a bilateral meeting between President Arif Alvi and his Uzbek counterpart  Shavkat Mirziyoyev wherein they exchanged views on a wide range of issues of bilateral interest and important regional and international matters.

The president expressed satisfaction on the upward trajectory of bilateral ties and reiterated desire to promote multifaceted cooperation in all spheres including political, trade, economic, defence, security, connectivity, education and cultural exchanges.

He elaborated Pakistan’s efforts for enhanced engagement with Central Asia within the framework of the “Vision Central Asia” policy.

President Alvi highlighted prospects of regional integration and connectivity to Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries through Pakistan’s seaports.

He said Trans-Afghan Railway would be one such project to establish consolidated land connectivity. He also underscored the importance of air connectivity for boosting tourism and people-to-people exchanges.

The president emphasized that peace and stability in Afghanistan is vital to reap dividends of land connectivity.

He said a peaceful Afghanistan would contribute to the economic progress and prosperity of the region and beyond.

President Alvi lauded the signing of the Joint Declaration on Next Steps in Strategic Partnership between Pakistan and Uzbekistan and MoUs/Agreements multiple areas.

The two presidents also discussed key regional and global issues of mutual interest.

The President of Uzbekistan was on his two-day first ever visit to Pakistan after assuming the office in 2016, along with a high-level ministerial and business delegation.