Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again called upon the Afghan interim government to prevent its territory from being used against Pakistan, emphasizing that peace and stability in Afghanistan are crucial for the region’s prosperity.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Uzbekistan
While addressing the signing ceremony of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in Uzbekistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations with neighboring countries. He stated that the prosperity and development of Pakistan and Uzbekistan are a shared commitment and that his government is dedicated to elevating ties between the two nations to new heights.
He further elaborated that trade through railways holds immense potential and that efforts are underway to facilitate investment in economic zones. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of strengthening tourism cooperation and establishing enhanced connectivity between Uzbekistan, Karachi, and Lahore.
Pakistan’s Economic Progress Under Shehbaz Sharif’s Leadership
Speaking on the country’s economic trajectory, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted that his government has successfully stabilized Pakistan’s economy within a year. He mentioned that the reduction in the policy rate has bolstered investor confidence and positively impacted the nation’s growth rate.
He reassured stakeholders that his administration remains committed to driving economic development, facilitating investments, and fostering a business-friendly environment. This, he believes, will contribute to long-term stability and prosperity in Pakistan.
Addressing Security Concerns and Regional Stability
Amid growing security concerns, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the importance of regional peace. He urged the Afghan interim government to ensure that Afghan soil is not used for activities detrimental to Pakistan’s security. He stressed that maintaining peace in Afghanistan is in the best interest of the entire region.
Pakistan has long expressed concerns over cross-border militancy and has called for stronger collaboration with Afghan authorities to curb security threats. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks highlight Pakistan’s continued efforts to engage diplomatically and seek regional solutions to security challenges.
Economic and Trade Cooperation Between Pakistan and Uzbekistan
The Prime Minister underlined the significance of enhancing trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. He pointed out that investments in the economic sector, particularly in railway connectivity and infrastructure development, will play a vital role in strengthening bilateral trade.
Uzbekistan, a key trade partner in Central Asia, has shown interest in expanding trade routes through Pakistan, which would enable efficient access to ports like Karachi and Gwadar. The Prime Minister’s visit and MoUs with Uzbek officials indicate a promising future for regional economic collaboration.
Call for Unity and a Collective Approach to Regional Challenges
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that regional peace and stability should be a collective effort. He called upon all stakeholders, including Afghanistan’s interim government, to work together for mutual growth and security.
Pakistan continues to advocate for diplomatic dialogue and constructive engagement with Afghanistan to address security concerns and promote economic cooperation. The call for preventing the use of Afghan territory against Pakistan reiterates the need for strong, proactive measures to ensure regional stability.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s speech underscores Pakistan’s dedication to fostering strong international relations, stabilizing its economy, and addressing security challenges through diplomatic means. His emphasis on economic growth, trade facilitation, and regional peace highlights his government’s commitment to a prosperous and secure South and Central Asia.
As Pakistan strengthens its ties with Uzbekistan and calls for greater security cooperation with Afghanistan, the region’s stability and economic progress remain at the forefront of its diplomatic priorities. The Afghan interim government’s response to these calls will be crucial in shaping the future of regional peace and cooperation.
