Pakistan and Uzbekistan on Tuesday agreed to strengthen their ties by enhancing bilateral trade and improving connectivity in the region, what the two sides believed could guarantee regional development. Addressing a joint press stakeout after signing of bilateral agreements, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Uzbek President Islam Karimov expressed satisfaction over the bilateral ties; however stressed for harnessing the full potential of the bilateral cooperation in various spheres.
Nawaz Sharif said his government was keen to strengthen ties with Uzbekistan, adding the projects like China Pakistan Economic Corridor and other connectivity projects would ensure regional development and prosperity. He said once the project of rail link between Pakistan and Uzbekistan was executed, it would have a greater positive impact on the trade activities of both the countries. The PM said both Pakistan and Uzbekistan shared the view that peace and stability in the region was essential for better economic activity.
President Karimov said Pakistan enjoyed an important status in Asia as well as Muslim world for its geographical and geo-political position. He also welcomed the peace process in Afghanistan. The Uzbek President said the parliamentary exchanges between the two countries were essential to bring the two peoples closer.