Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, has announced plans to introduce a direct flight route between Uzbekistan and Karachi later this year. This new connection is expected to enhance bilateral connectivity and foster deeper economic cooperation between the two countries.
The announcement comes as the two nations continue to strengthen their relationship, with a $1 billion trade agreement signed in 2023 and a roadmap for industrial collaboration to further promote regional connectivity.
During his visit to Karachi from January 2 to 4, Ambassador Tukhtaev held meetings with officials from the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), and local business leaders. He also emphasized Uzbekistan’s recent policy changes, including the introduction of a soft visa policy for Pakistani nationals in September 2023 and the launch of direct flights from Tashkent to Lahore. These initiatives have significantly boosted tourism and business exchanges.
Ambassador Tukhtaev highlighted that bilateral trade between the two countries has tripled since 2019, reaching $387 million in 2023. To further strengthen economic relations, he also announced plans for a “Made in Uzbekistan” industrial exhibition in Karachi.
In his remarks, Tukhtaev encouraged Pakistani businesses to explore investment and partnership opportunities in Uzbekistan’s rapidly growing regions, offering full support through government and business meetings to facilitate these ventures.
