President for broadening economic, cultural ties with Uzbekistan

President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday called for further broadening bilateral cooperation with Uzbekistan in trade, economy, culture and tourism.

The president, speaking with Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Saidov during his visit to Aiwan-e-Sadr, emphasised that Pakistan attached utmost importance to its centuries-old ties with Uzbekistan, which were based on shared religion, culture, and history.

Welcoming the foreign minister, the president noted that both countries had great potential to increase bilateral trade and economic ties for mutual benefit.

He highlighted Pakistan's commitment to regional connectivity, emphasising that Central Asian countries could leverage its geographic location.

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Additionally, he suggested implementing barter trade and using local currencies to enhance bilateral trade, along with opening banks in both countries to facilitate business and commercial relations.

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of promoting people-to-people and tourism linkages to bring the two countries closer.

FM Saidov called for developing a roadmap to deepen bilateral ties and accelerate the partnership for mutual benefit. He emphasised the need for an action plan to boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation, expressing hope that the transport corridor between the two countries would further improve ties.

The visiting foreign minister also conveyed warm regards from the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to President Zardari.