Pakistan and Uzbekistan have identified significant opportunities to expand cooperation in the energy sector and strengthen economic ties.
Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari highlighted the potential during a reception marking Uzbekistan’s 35th Independence Day. He congratulated Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, along with the government and people of Uzbekistan.
Leghari expressed Pakistan’s best wishes for Uzbekistan’s continued peace, stability, prosperity and development.
Energy Cooperation Could Strengthen Economic Partnership
The minister said energy cooperation could become a key pillar of Pakistan-Uzbekistan economic relations. Potential areas include electricity connectivity, renewable energy, hydropower, energy infrastructure and investment.
He also stressed the importance of exchanging expertise to develop resilient and sustainable energy systems.
Leghari said stronger cooperation in these areas could support both countries’ broader economic partnership and regional integration. He also highlighted the historic relationship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, which is rooted in shared Islamic culture and civilisation.
Pakistan was among the first countries to recognise Uzbekistan’s independence. The two countries established formal diplomatic relations in 1992.
They are scheduled to mark the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations in May 2027.
Bilateral Relations Gain New Momentum
Leghari said bilateral relations have developed into a strong partnership based on mutual respect and shared values. Cooperation now covers trade, investment, energy, connectivity, education, science, technology and culture.
The relationship gained further momentum after Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited Uzbekistan in February 2025.
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev subsequently visited Pakistan in February 2026.
During these visits, both sides signed several agreements and memoranda of understanding.
The agreements covered areas including trade, mining, information technology, education, agriculture, maritime affairs and defence.
Leghari also highlighted the economic potential of stronger bilateral engagement.
He said Pakistan and Uzbekistan have set an ambitious trade target and called for greater interaction between their business communities.
According to the minister, stronger business-to-business engagement can encourage investment and joint ventures.
Connectivity Offers New Economic Opportunities
Leghari described regional connectivity as another important part of the two countries’ shared vision. Pakistan can provide Uzbekistan with access to the Arabian Sea and international markets.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan can help Pakistan connect with expanding Central Asian markets. The minister also noted that both countries cooperate through several international and regional organisations.
These include the United Nations, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Economic Cooperation Organization.
He praised Uzbekistan’s constructive role in advancing regional connectivity, dialogue and economic cooperation. Leghari expressed confidence that bilateral relations would continue to strengthen.
He called for joint efforts to transform existing potential into greater trade, investment, energy cooperation and connectivity for the benefit of both countries.
