Uzbekistan to Launch Direct Flights to Karachi, Strengthening Regional Connectivity

Uzbekistan plans to launch direct flights to Karachi as part of its efforts to enhance trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections with Pakistan. The announcement was made by Uzbek Ambassador to Pakistan Alisher Tukhtaev during his recent visit to Karachi, where he engaged with business leaders and key stakeholders.

Direct Flights to Boost Ties

The move follows the successful launch of direct flights between Tashkent and Lahore earlier this year. Ambassador Tukhtaev emphasized that these initiatives reflect Uzbekistan’s commitment to fostering regional connectivity and strengthening ties with Pakistan.

“Our two nations are closer than ever, thanks to the realization of the long-awaited vision of regional connectivity,” said the envoy, describing direct flights to Karachi as a "significant step" in fostering closer economic and cultural relations.

Pakistan’s Role as a Regional Hub

The development aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to position itself as a vital trade and transit hub for landlocked Central Asian states. Leveraging its strategic geographical position, Pakistan has ramped up efforts to facilitate investment and trade with the region.

Growing Economic Collaboration

The relationship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan has strengthened significantly in recent years, with bilateral trade tripling from $122 million in 2019 to $387 million in 2023.

Key milestones include:

• February 2023: A $1 billion agreement signed to boost bilateral trade at the Inter-governmental Commission on Trade-Economic and Scientific-Technical Cooperation in Tashkent.
• September 2023: Uzbekistan implemented a soft visa regime for Pakistani citizens, making business and tourist travel easier.

Ambassador Tukhtaev highlighted untapped opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, leather, food processing, and agribusiness.

Cultural and Business Exchange

The ambassador commended the success of the “Made in Pakistan” exhibition held in Tashkent in June 2024, which enabled entrepreneurs to forge new trade and investment agreements.

Building on this momentum, he announced plans for a “Made in Uzbekistan” industrial exhibition in Karachi later this year. The event will include business-to-business (B2B) meetings and serve as a platform to further strengthen economic ties.

“Uzbekistan offers a safe, conducive, and liberal environment for investment,” said Tukhtaev, urging Pakistani businesses to capitalize on opportunities in various sectors.

Key Highlights

• New Flight Route: Uzbekistan plans to launch direct flights from Tashkent to Karachi, enhancing connectivity.
• Trade Growth: Bilateral trade has tripled in four years, reflecting strong economic collaboration.
• Exhibition Plans: A "Made in Uzbekistan" event is scheduled in Karachi to foster investment and trade opportunities.