Pakistan’s Habib Rafiq Engineering (Pvt.) Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Uzbekistan’s Khorezm Region government.
The agreement covers a proposed smart city development linked to the expansion of the historic city of Khiva. The project could create new opportunities for investment, innovation and economic growth.
It also aims to strengthen regional connectivity while opening another avenue for Pakistan-Uzbekistan economic cooperation.
HRL Signs MoU With Khorezm Government
The MoU was signed at the Governor’s Office in Urgench, the provincial capital of Khorezm Region.
Khalid Taimur Akram signed the agreement on behalf of HRL. Deputy Governor of Khorezm Region Alisher Dushanov represented the Uzbek side.
The initiative was led by HRL Group Chairman Zahid Rafiq and Vice Chairman Jahanzaib Zahid.
The company plans to contribute its experience in infrastructure, real estate and smart city development to the proposed project.
HRL has previously participated in major urban developments in Pakistan, including Capital Smart City Islamabad and Lahore Smart City.
Capital Smart City Islamabad covers approximately 14,500 acres, according to the information provided for the project.
Proposed Smart City to Blend Technology With Heritage
The planned Khiva smart city will focus on modern infrastructure and technology while preserving the city’s historic character.
Khiva has more than 2,500 years of history and remains an important cultural destination in Central Asia.
Therefore, the proposed development aims to balance urban modernization with the preservation of Khiva’s historical and cultural identity.
Under the envisioned project, HRL plans to bring expertise in smart urban planning and infrastructure development.
The company will also focus on transportation networks, utilities and sustainable urban solutions.
The development aims to create a modern and connected urban environment for residents, businesses and investors.
At the same time, the project intends to respect Khiva’s heritage while supporting the needs of future generations.
Project Could Strengthen Pakistan-Uzbekistan Cooperation
The proposed development could provide a new platform for cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
HRL said it appreciated the Khorezm Regional Government for its confidence and cooperation. The company also expressed its intention to work closely with Uzbek authorities as the project moves forward.
HRL also appreciated Laziz Kudratov for his continued support and encouragement of foreign companies operating in Uzbekistan.
Such cooperation could help promote greater international investment and economic engagement in the country.
Focus on Sustainable Urban Development
The initiative aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader push toward modernization, sustainable development and international partnerships.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has emphasized modernization and stronger international economic cooperation as part of the country’s development agenda.
Against this backdrop, the proposed Khiva project could become another example of cross-border cooperation in urban development.
For Pakistan, the initiative also highlights the potential to export infrastructure and urban planning expertise to Central Asian markets.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan could benefit from additional international experience as it continues developing modern and sustainable urban environments.
If advanced as envisioned, the Khiva smart city project could mark a new chapter in Pakistan-Uzbekistan economic cooperation.
The initiative would bring together Pakistan’s infrastructure expertise and Uzbekistan’s ambitions for modern urban development while keeping Khiva’s heritage at the center.
