In a significant step towards enhancing economic collaboration and regional connectivity, the first tripartite meeting among Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan took place in Islamabad.
Caretaker Minister for Trade and Industry Gohar Ijaz, alongside Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister, discussed strengthening trade ties between the countries in a joint press conference.
In a noteworthy announcement, Caretaker Federal Minister for Commerce and Industry Dr. Gohar Ejaz highlighted that the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan currently stands at $100 million. The discussion also delved into the prospect of opening banking channels between the two nations, a move anticipated to stimulate economic collaboration.
During the joint press conference, the Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister expressed enthusiasm for expanding trade with Pakistan, emphasizing the positive advancements in digitalizing trade.
He revealed plans for monthly working group meetings between the two nations and provided insights into discussions surrounding the Trans-Afghan Rail Project. Trilateral talks involving Afghanistan focused on simplifying customs procedures to facilitate smoother cross-border trade.
The meeting, jointly chaired by the Trade Ministers of Pakistan and Afghanistan and the Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, prioritized the promotion of trade relations among the three nations.
The agenda included a comprehensive review of investment opportunities across various sectors, emphasizing joint ventures, public-private partnerships, and increased foreign direct investment. Infrastructure development to facilitate trade was also a key topic of discussion.
Commerce Minister Dr. Gohar Ijaz underscored the potential for trilateral cooperation to accelerate economic development in the three countries.
He expressed optimism that Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan, by leveraging their strengths and resources, could explore new markets and foster economic growth. The tripartite meeting marked a significant step toward a more interconnected and mutually beneficial regional collaboration.
