ISLAMABAD: The Ambassador of Uzbekistan, Aybek Arif Usmanov, emphasized the increasing ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, stating that the trade volume between the two nations has significantly grown. He expressed these views during an interaction with media personnel on the occasion of the International Day of Journalism.
Ambassador Usmanov highlighted the historical significance of journalism, mentioning that the first-ever Uzbek newspaper, “TARAQQI,” was published in Tashkent on June 27, 1906. He also shared information about the first Urdu newspaper, “Jam-i-Jahan Numa,” published in Kolkata in 1822, and the renowned “Daily Jang” Urdu newspaper launched in Karachi in 1939, followed by “Daily Imroze” in Lahore in 1947.
Recognizing the crucial role of journalists in society, Ambassador Usmanov stated that they serve as important sources of news, information, and opinion. He emphasized that journalists play a vital role in uncovering the truth, holding the powerful accountable, and contributing to an informed citizenry capable of making decisions based on facts.
Highlighting the historical and cultural connections between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, Ambassador Usmanov mentioned that both countries have long served as significant crossroads, connecting various regions of the world. He highlighted the peaceful coexistence of different nationalities and religions, noting how the exchange of cultures between peoples has enriched both Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
Uzbekistan’s Foreign Policy
Regarding foreign policy, Ambassador Usmanov explained that Uzbekistan follows a peaceful approach aimed at developing bilateral and multilateral relations with states and international organizations. He mentioned that Uzbekistan’s foreign policy is based on principles such as sovereign equality, territorial integrity, peaceful dispute resolution, non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, and adherence to international law.
The ambassador highlighted the positive impact of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s international initiatives, which have garnered broad support from the international community. Uzbekistan’s foreign policy has led to significant changes in the political atmosphere in Central Asia, fostering recognition of the interconnectedness and interdependence of the region with South Asia at sub-regional and global levels.
Ambassador Usmanov noted the importance of strengthening relations with neighboring countries in Central and South Asia. In recent years, Uzbekistan has witnessed high-level events with delegations from nearly 30 partner countries and international organizations, including experts from foreign think tanks representing over 40 states, including brotherly Pakistan.
Addressing bilateral relations, Ambassador Usmanov highlighted the Uzbekistan-Pakistan Inter-governmental Commission on Trade-Economic and Scientific-Technical Cooperation (IGC) held on February 24th in Tashkent. During the IGC meeting, a Road Map agreement was signed to increase bilateral trade up to $1 billion. The next step will involve signing a Road Map on Industrial Cooperation.
The implementation of Transit Trade and Preferential Trade Agreements since March this year has facilitated a significant boost in bilateral trade volume, reaching $150 million. This represents a twofold increase compared to the same period in 2022 ($87.6 million). Both countries have witnessed growth in exports, with Uzbekistan’s exports to Pakistan amounting to $79 million (a 2.5-fold increase) and Pakistani exports to Uzbekistan reaching $71 million (a 1.2-fold increase).
Ambassador Usmanov expressed his belief that diplomats and journalists should serve as humble servants in further strengthening the brotherly relations and connectivity between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
