In a strategic move aimed at enhancing international connectivity, trade, and tourism, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is all set to launch direct international flights to Uzbekistan.
This initiative, directed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reflects a broader diplomatic and economic agenda to strengthen bilateral ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Tourism boards on both sides are collaborating to promote historical sites, such as Lahore Fort, Mohenjo-Daro, Shah-i-Zinda, and Registan Square, encouraging mutual exploration and appreciation.
A New Era of Pakistan-Uzbekistan Relations
This development marks a milestone in the deepening diplomatic engagement between the two nations. Present at the meeting was also Uzbek Ambassador to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, signifying the importance of this bilateral conversation.
The meeting addressed several dimensions of mutual cooperation, with special emphasis on tourism, cultural exchange, and economic partnership.
Currently, traveling between the two countries often requires multiple layovers, which discourages tourists and hampers business travel. By launching non-stop routes, PIA is positioning itself as a key player in the revival of regional connectivity and economic diplomacy.
These flights will serve as a gateway for Pakistani travelers to access Central Asia, including Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara—historic cities of immense cultural and economic value. Likewise, Uzbek citizens will now find it easier to explore Pakistan’s rich heritage, natural landscapes, and vibrant cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi.
Speaking on the occasion, Haroon Akhtar Khan said, “The time has come to turn our focus to Central Asia, a region rich in economic and cultural potential.” His statement reflects a renewed strategic outlook, where trade corridors, cultural diplomacy, and tourism linkages play a central role in Pakistan’s foreign policy architecture.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Vision for Central Asia
Beyond PIA, the initiative also aims to involve private airlines to create a competitive and efficient air travel ecosystem. Allowing private carriers to operate flights on this route will not only increase flight frequency and reduce costs but also enhance service quality and customer experience.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has consistently emphasized the importance of regional integration, calling Central Asia a region with enormous untapped potential.
In addition to commercial benefits, the direct flights initiative seeks to revive and celebrate the shared cultural heritage between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan’s strategic location in Central Asia, coupled with Pakistan’s access to warm water ports, can redefine regional supply chains and create new economic corridors.
To accommodate this shift in international operations, PIA and Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) are upgrading their infrastructure and service protocols.
