Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday called for the expansion of bilateral cooperation with Uzbekistan in trade, economy, culture and tourism.
The President, speaking to Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtyor Saidov during his visit to Aiwan-e-Sadr, said that Pakistan clings to the importance of centuries-old relations with Uzbekistan based on common religion, culture and history.
Congratulating the foreign minister, the president said that both countries have great opportunities to develop bilateral trade and economic relations for mutual benefit.
He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to regional connectivity and said it could improve the geographical location of Central Asian countries.
He also suggested the use of barter trade and local currency to promote bilateral trade and open banks in both countries to facilitate trade and commerce.
In addition, he stressed the importance of developing people-to-people tourism ties to unite the two countries.
FM Saidov called for a road map to strengthen bilateral relations and accelerate cooperation for mutual benefit.
The foreign minister who visited President Zardari from the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyev.
