Friday, 29 March 2024, 03:44:51 pm

PM’s visit to Uzbekistan to open new avenues of Cooperation: Analysts
July 15, 2021

Dr. Huma Baqai (Expert on International Relations):   Prime Minister Imran Khan's recent visit to Uzbekistan holds great importance as far as the geo-political situation of the region is concerned. Both the countries have great potential to boost economic ties. Both the countries are making collective efforts for sustainable peace in Afghanistan. It is a high profile visit of Pakistan leadership to Uzbekistan, which would allow the economic growth of Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Afghanistan together. The timing of the visit is very accurate and would bring a positive impact on the geo-strategic situation of the region. Pakistan is pursuing an effective diplomacy to maintain friendly relations with regional countries as well as global powers. It is high time for Pakistan to exhibit more proactive diplomacy. Pakistan is playing an effective role to restore peace and stability in Afghanistan. Afghanistan is witnessing phase of power transition in his political history. The Afghan Taliban and the Kabul government should sit together on the negotiating table to seek peaceful settlement of the Afghan conflict.

Mushtaq Ahmed Mehar (Former Ambassador): Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to Uzbekistan holds great significance as far as regional connectivity, trade, economy and Afghan peace is concerned. The Central Asian states are rich in natural resources. Pakistan can improve its economy by strengthening economic ties with Central Asian states. Pakistan is culturally, historically and spiritually connected to Uzbekistan. The Trans-Afghan Railroad Project is the most important project for Uzbekistan and Pakistan. In recent years, Pakistan-Uzbekistan relations have witnessed an upward trajectory. 

Mirza Ikhtiyar Baig (Economist):  The trade and economic relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan are rooted-deep in common faith, shared history, and cultural affinities, providing a firm foundation for increased cooperation.  The two countries have increased interaction at all levels over the past two years. Regional connectivity would strengthen trade and business activities in the region. Regional trade is the key to regional prosperity. Pakistan has great potential to boost its trade with central Asian countries. Trade between the two countries is increasing and trade relations will further strengthen in the future.

Dr. Khurram Iqbal (Expert on International Relations):  Peaceful solution to Afghan dispute is highly significant for regional stability. History reveals that Pakistan has always tried its best to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan. Pakistan has always advocated an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led peace process for regional stability. Unfortunately, some elements in Afghanistan are favoring the peace spoilers. We cannot prosper with volatile Afghanistan. Pakistan is committed to endorse any initiative taken for Afghan peace. The Kabul government should act wisely under the prevailing political situation in the region. The US decision to withdraw its forces from Afghanistan immediately indicates that the Washington wants to destabilize the entire region. The real intention of the United States is to contain influences of China and Russia. Beijing and Moscow have opposed irresponsible withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. If current situation triggers civil war in Afghanistan, Pakistan will not be able to afford hosting Afghan refugees.