In a significant development for Pakistan-Uzbekistan economic relations, Kurdatov Laziz Shavkatovich, Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan, has called for expanding the range of goods covered under the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two countries.
Boosting Bilateral Trade Through Expanded Agreement
The Uzbek minister emphasized that broadening the list of goods under the PTA would significantly enhance trade volumes between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. "By expanding the list of goods under the PTA, we expect to further enhance trade volumes through reduced customs duties and the creation of favorable conditions for local product exports," Shavkatovich stated during his address.
The minister made these remarks at the 36th International Achievement Awards ceremony organized by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) in Tashkent. The event served as a platform to strengthen economic ties and recognize outstanding contributions to business development.
Key Sectors Identified for Enhanced Cooperation
Minister Shavkatovich highlighted several sectors with substantial potential for increased collaboration between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. The identified areas include fruits and vegetables, textiles, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and information technology.
The Uzbek official commended RCCI's consistent efforts in promoting regional connectivity and cross-border partnerships. He revealed that discussions are currently underway to expand the PTA's scope, aiming to deepen bilateral economic relations between the two nations.
RCCI's Commitment to International Partnerships
RCCI President Usman Shaukat reaffirmed the chamber's dedication to strengthening international linkages and promoting trade diplomacy. He emphasized the organization's focus on exploring new avenues for Pakistani exports and investments in international markets.
During the prestigious ceremony, several notable figures received recognition for their contributions to the business community. Group leader and former RCCI president Sohail Altaf was honored with a memento acknowledging his dynamic leadership and consistent advocacy for Pakistan's business sector, particularly on budgetary and policy matters.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to former RCCI president Syed Asad Mashadi in recognition of his visionary leadership and outstanding contributions to Pakistan's business growth and empowerment.
The event attracted distinguished dignitaries including Ahmed Farooq, Pakistan's Ambassador to Uzbekistan; Alisher Shaikhov, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan; and Zaheer Abbas, Pakistan's Trade Counselor in Tashkent.
The International Achievement Awards celebrated excellence across multiple key sectors, honoring top performers in categories including:
- Businessman of the Year
- Company of the Year
- Exporter of the Year
- Innovation and Technology Award
- Lifetime Achievement Award
The sectors recognized for outstanding performance included pharmaceuticals, construction, IT, agriculture, textiles, tourism, and trade, demonstrating the diverse strengths of the business community engaged in Pakistan-Uzbekistan economic relations.
