Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to enhancing bilateral trade, particularly in the carpet industry, during his visit to the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA). He emphasized the vast opportunities for mutual trade growth and discussed strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations.
Tukhtaev, accompanied by Trade Consul Bakhrom Yusupov and other officials, met with key industry figures, including PCMEA Patron-in-Chief Abdul Latif Malik, Chairman Mian Atiqur Rehman, Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmed, and Carpet Training Institute Chairperson Ejazur Rehman.
Boosting Trade Through Direct Air Links
The ambassador hailed the launch of direct flights between Tashkent and Lahore as a “historic development” that will significantly boost trade and cultural ties. He noted that Uzbekistan, with a population of 40 million and an annual GDP growth rate of 6-7%, offers vast potential for cooperation in energy, logistics, agriculture, and trade. He also highlighted Uzbekistan’s special economic zones, which provide competitive gas and electricity rates, making them attractive for Pakistani investors.
Proposals for Strengthening Carpet Trade
PCMEA leaders proposed organizing single-country exhibitions in Uzbekistan to showcase Pakistani handmade carpets, urging Uzbek authorities to allow direct sales in the local market. They also requested reduced import tariffs on Pakistani carpets and suggested hosting exhibitions every six months to enhance trade and cultural exchange.
Trade Consul Yusupov acknowledged Pakistan’s expertise in handmade carpets and expressed interest in joint ventures between Pakistani and Uzbek manufacturers. He encouraged PCMEA to arrange a delegation to Uzbekistan to explore partnership opportunities.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
Discussions also covered ongoing trade agreements between the two countries, including 17 signed trade items and two memoranda of understanding on transit trade logistics. PCMEA officials sought information on wool and silk prices in Uzbekistan and import procedures for these raw materials into Pakistan.
At the conclusion of the meeting, PCMEA presented a handmade carpet and a special shield to Ambassador Tukhtaev, who reciprocated with a commemorative shield for Chairman Rehman.
The visit marks a step forward in Pakistan-Uzbekistan trade relations, with the carpet industry playing a key role in fostering economic collaboration.
