Pakistan and Uzbekistan have signed a protocol to cooperate in water, power, agriculture, leather, textile, tourism and pharmaceutical sectors and to enhance bilateral trade between the two countries. The agreement was signed on Saturday in Tashkent after conclusion of 4th session of Uzbek-Pak Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC).
The Chairman of the JMC from Pakistan side, Federal Minister for Water and Power, Pervez Ashraf and the Uzbek Minister for Agriculture and Water Management Safiuddin Ismailove signed the protocol. The 4th session of the JMC was held in Tashkent on April 17 and 18, 2009.
The two sides discussed various proposals to enhance bilateral trade and economic co-operation and stressed the need for joint strategy in this regard. Ashraf also called on the Uzbek Prime Minister and delivered a special message of good wishes of Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to him. The Minister asked for opening of a branch of National Bank of Pakistan in Tashkent.
He said that the government of Pakistan is considering a request of Uzbekistan for provision of transport facilities at Gawadar Port and Port Qasim. He also informed him the Federal Cabinet has ratified the transit trade agreement with Uzbekistan.
The Uzbek Prime Minister assured Ashraf that necessary formalities were being finalised for opening a branch of National Bank in Tashkent. Uzbek PM also expressed his good wishes for Pakistan and solidarity with Pakistan for fight against terrorism. Ashraf also held meetings with Uzbek Minister of Commerce, water, economic affairs and the delegation of chamber of commerce and industry. They all assured of their full co-operation and joint venture projects in Pakistan.-PR