ISLAMABAD, February 28. /Dunyo IA/. Leading Pakistani media outlets continue to highlight the current state and future prospects of relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

In particular, an article by Bekzod Alimjonov, an expert at the Center for Foreign Policy Research and International Initiatives of Uzbekistan, titled “Bridges of Friendship: Toward New Horizons of Partnership between Uzbekistan and Pakistan” was published in “DNA”, “Daily Ittehad”, “Daily Independent”, “Islamabad Post”, “Centreline”, “World News Pakistan”, “The Gulf Observer”, “Sub News”, “Infora News”, “The Diplomatic Insight”, “MNN NEWS”, “Diplomatic Affairs”, “Cpec News”, “Daily Sub News”, “Margalla Tribune”, “Network News Pakistan”, “Media Online Today”, “Khyber Mail” and several other electronic and print media outlets across the country. 

The author notes that even in the early days of Uzbekistan’s independence, Pakistan warmly and enthusiastically welcomed this historic event. Later, during a visit to Pakistan, he once again felt the sincerity of these relations despite the geographical distance, the countries are united by spiritual closeness and a readiness to share joys and support each other in difficult times. This closeness, the expert emphasizes, has been shaped over centuries, beginning with trade and pilgrimage connections, as well as the influence of the Great Silk Road and Sufi traditions.

A particular significance in strengthening ties lies in the shared historical and cultural heritage, including the legacy of Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, which forms the foundation for common traditions, language and cultural worldview.

Bilateral relations have been developing steadily and, in 2021, reached the level of a strategic partnership. The expert notes that a key role in this progress is played by the firm political will of the countries’ leaders: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the constructive dialogue established between them.

Over the past decade, Uzbekistan and Pakistan have achieved significant progress in political dialogue, the expansion of trade and economic cooperation, strengthening collaboration in defence and security, enhancing cultural and humanitarian exchanges, and coordinating on regional and international issues.

Today, relations between Tashkent and Islamabad are based on good-neighborliness, mutual trust and respect for each other’s interests. Institutional ties have been strengthened, and cooperation between government bodies and business communities has acquired a new dynamic character. Among the priority projects is connecting Uzbekistan to Pakistan’s seaports, opening new opportunities to deepen mutually beneficial links.

As the author emphasizes, the political, economic and cultural relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan are developing steadily, providing a reliable foundation for long-term partnership and contributing to stability and sustainable development in the region.