Pakistan, Uzbekistan sign 29 MoUs across multiple sectors to strengthen bilateral cooperation

Islamabad: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev arrived at the Prime Minister’s House, where a formal reception ceremony was held in his honor during his official visit to Pakistan. On the occasion, Pakistan and Uzbekistan exchanged 28 agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in various sectors, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Mirziyoyev signed a Joint Declaration.

According to details, the MoU exchange ceremony took place at the Prime Minister’s House, where agreements were signed to enhance cooperation between the foreign ministries of both countries. An agreement was also signed for the establishment of an Inter-Regional Forum.

Pakistan and Uzbekistan also signed agreements for the exchange of convicted prisoners, cooperation in the information technology sector, collaboration in the pharmaceutical industry, and an agreement to prevent the smuggling of narcotics.

Addressing the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the friendship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan is based on mutual respect, trust, and shared interests. He expressed the resolve of both countries to work together for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

The Prime Minister thanked Uzbekistan for its support on the issues of Kashmir and Palestine, stating that Pakistan believes in joint efforts for lasting peace and development in the region. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties with Uzbekistan.

Earlier, a formal welcome ceremony was held at the Prime Minister’s House in honor of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly received the Uzbek president. The two leaders exchanged handshakes and pleasantries, followed by the playing of the national anthems of both countries. A smartly turned-out contingent of the armed forces presented a guard of honor, which the visiting president inspected.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif introduced members of his cabinet to the visiting dignitary, while President Mirziyoyev also introduced members of his delegation. The Uzbek president later planted a sapling on the lawn of the Prime Minister’s House as a commemorative gesture.

Earlier, upon President Mirziyoyev’s arrival in Islamabad on a two-day visit, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received him at Nur Khan Airbase. Children holding the flags of both countries welcomed the distinguished guest, who was also presented with a 21-gun salute on his arrival in Pakistan.