LAHORE, March 13. /Dunyo IA/.  A delegation from Tashkent Region, led by Zoyir Mirzaev and Alisher To‘xtayev, conducted a working visit to Lahore to strengthen interregional cooperation and economic ties, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

During the visit, meetings were held with the former Prime Minister of Pakistan and leader of the “Pakistan Muslim League-N” (PML-N) party, Nawaz Sharif, and Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Chief Minister of Punjab Province.

Nawaz Sharif highly praised the reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, emphasizing their effectiveness. He fondly recalled his past visits to the country and his meetings with the President.

“Special attention should be paid to the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan. Samarkand is historically known as a center of science and culture. New Uzbekistan, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has undergone profound changes and has taken a worthy place among nations with a high international reputation. Pakistan considers Uzbekistan and its President to be close friends. We are interested in further strengthening cooperation in all areas”, - former Prime Minister noted.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Chief Minister of Punjab, described Uzbekistan as a reliable and friendly partner, stressing the importance of expanding economic and cultural ties. She expressed her readiness to visit Uzbekistan, noting that such a visit would facilitate the development of trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.

During the talks, the parties discussed opportunities to expand cooperation across all sectors, including trade, economics and the strengthening of interregional ties. Particular emphasis was placed on developing people-to-people relations. The sides highlighted the significance of establishing sister-region (twin-region) relations between the Punjab and Tashkent regions and agreed to create a joint working group to develop practical steps for implementing this initiative.

Furthermore, cooperation opportunities were discussed in fields such as tourism, agriculture, livestock farming, meat processing, soft drink production, and citrus cultivation. The Uzbek side also expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Pakistan in pharmaceuticals.

A significant part of the negotiations focused on cultural cooperation. Specifically, a proposal was made to exchange masterclasses on preparing the national dish - Uzbek plov - by inviting experienced Uzbek chefs to Pakistan.

Following the meeting, it was emphasized that establishing cooperation between the Punjab province and the Tashkent region will strengthen the overall partnership between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, open new economic opportunities and increase bilateral trade volumes.