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ISLAMABAD, (MANEND NEWS): Pakistan and Uzbekistan have agreed
to keep up momentum of high-level exchanges and further expand
bilateral cooperation and understanding in diverse fields.
The understanding reached during inaugural round of Pakistan-
Uzbekistan Bilateral Political Consultations was virtually held between
the two sides.
The Pakistan side was led by Aamar Aftab Qureshi, Additional
Secretary (Afghanistan and West Asia) while Ambassador Furkat
Sidikov, Deputy Foreign Minister, led the Uzbek side. The two sides
exchanged views on whole gamut of bilateral relations including
political, economic and trade, culture, people-to-people exchanges,
regional connectivity, defence and security and regional as well as
global issues.
They expressed satisfaction on the positive momentum in high-level
visits and interactions including the visit of the Uzbek Foreign Minister
to Pakistan and virtual summit between Prime Minister Imran Khan
and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The two sides agreed to continue
the momentum of high-level exchanges and further expand bilateral
cooperation and understanding in myriad fields. The two sides
discussed progress on Trans-Afghan railway project between Pakistan,
Uzbekistan and Afghanistan.
Additional Secretary Qureshi emphasized the importance of direct air
connectivity for promoting trade, tourism and people-to-people
contacts. He welcomed the resumption of Uzbek Air flights from Lahore
to Tashkent. Additional Secretary Qureshi highlighted Pakistan’s
positive efforts in facilitating Afghan peace process with the aim of
promoting inclusive and broad-based political settlement. The two
sides underlined the convergence of views in ensuring security,
stability and lasting peace in Afghanistan through an Afghan-led and
Afghan-owned peace process.
Additional Secretary Qureshi highlighted the dire human rights and
humanitarian situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and
Kashmir (IIOJK) since 5 August 2019, as well as the ongoing human
rights violations of the Kashmiri people and attempts to change the
demographic structure of the occupied territory. Additional Secretary
Qureshi underscored the importance of resolution of Jammu and
Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions and
the wishes of the Kashmiri people. Pakistan and Uzbekistan enjoy
cordial and brotherly relations based on common faith, shared history
and cultural affinities. The two countries have been closely
collaborating at regional and international fora, especially the UN, OIC,
ECO and SCO.