Pakistani entrepreneurs are eager to collaborate with the Bukhara region.

The Governor of Bukhara Region, Botir Zarifov, held a meeting with a delegation of Pakistani entrepreneurs. The event was also attended by Uzbekistan's Ambassador to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, Deputy Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan, Halimjon Safarov, and Trade Counselor at the embassy, Bakhram Yusupov.

https://uzdaily.uz/ru/pakistanskie-biznesmeny-zainteresovany-v-sotrudnichestve-s-bukharskoi-oblastiu/2025-03-03 08:47:18

Over the past eight years, the relationship between Uzbekistan and Pakistan has significantly strengthened, encompassing not only trade and economic collaboration but also cultural and humanitarian interactions, including the development of pilgrimage tourism. During the discussion, it was highlighted that Pakistan is one of the rapidly developing economies with substantial industrial capacities, particularly in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and construction materials manufacturing.

— For Uzbekistan, which is actively developing these areas, the experience and technologies of Pakistan are of great importance. Conversely, we view Pakistan as a promising partner, given the stable growth of our economy and support for foreign investors, — noted Botir Zarifov.

In the last eight years, the number of enterprises with foreign capital in the region has increased fivefold. Currently, there are over 450 companies with foreign investments operating in the Bukhara region, 12 of which have been established in collaboration with Pakistani entrepreneurs.

The trade turnover between the Bukhara region and Pakistan is expected to reach $6 million in 2024, reflecting a 60% increase from last year's figure ($3.6 million). Exports amounted to $4.5 million, while imports reached $1.5 million.

There has also been a noticeable rise in the number of tourists visiting Uzbekistan, including Bukhara. In 2024, the country welcomed 1.7 million foreign guests, among whom were 1,200 tourists from Pakistan.

— Naturally, this figure requires further growth. We anticipate an increase in the number of tourists, the development of foreign trade, and the attraction of direct foreign investments. I am confident that today’s meeting will be a significant step in this direction, — emphasized the head of the region.

The parties discussed the untapped investment potential of the region, exchanged constructive proposals, and Pakistani entrepreneurs expressed interest in implementing joint projects.

Botir Zarifov assured that the Bukhara regional administration is open to mutually beneficial cooperation, the development of new projects, and the creation of favorable conditions for business. He noted that a free investment environment operates in the region, and entrepreneurial activities are protected by law.

As a result of the negotiations, the parties agreed on specific steps to implement the planned initiatives.