He emphasised that peace and stability in Afghanistan are crucial for the entire region.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent, PM Shehbaz expressed gratitude for Uzbekistan’s warm hospitality.

He highlighted the strong historical ties between the two nations and noted that their bilateral relations are progressing in the right direction.

The prime minister stressed the importance of boosting trade and investment, calling Uzbekistan a reliable partner. He reaffirmed the shared commitment to economic prosperity and development.

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Praising President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, Shehbaz Sharif said the Uzbek leader believes in practical steps and has taken his country to new heights of progress.

Inviting Uzbek investors to visit Pakistan, he reiterated his dedication to national development, following the vision set by Nawaz Sharif.

He asserted that hard work and determination are key to achieving economic growth.

The prime minister vowed to strengthen bilateral ties with Uzbekistan, saying his team is committed to elevating the relationship to new levels.

He claimed that in just one year, Pakistan’s economy has been stabilised.

Discussing his government’s economic achievements, Shehbaz Sharif stated that inflation in Pakistan has been reduced from 38 per cent to 2.4 per cent.

He added that lower policy rates have boosted investor confidence and contributed to economic growth.

He further said that Pakistan will learn from Uzbekistan’s development model and work tirelessly to reclaim its lost economic standing.

He emphasised the importance of trade via railways and noted that discussions on mineral sector investments had also taken place.

He assured that investment in economic zones and collaboration in the tourism sector would be prioritised.

PM Shehbaz also announced plans to link Uzbekistan with Karachi and Lahore, strengthening historic trade routes like the Silk Road.

He expressed confidence that agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between the two countries would soon materialise.

Reiterating his stance on Afghanistan, the prime minister called on Kabul’s interim government to prevent its land from being used against Pakistan.

He stressed that Afghanistan’s stability is essential for regional peace and prosperity.