Uzbekistan has revealed plans to launch direct flights between Uzbekistan and Karachi in 2025. The announcement was made by the Uzbek Ambassador to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, during his visit to Karachi, where he addressed the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), and local business leaders.
Ambassador Tukhtaev highlighted that the introduction of direct flights would play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing regional connectivity. He emphasized the shared cultural and religious ties between the two nations and stressed the need to expand economic cooperation.
The Ambassador also noted Uzbekistan’s introduction of a soft visa regime for Pakistani citizens in September 2023, which facilitates travel for both business and tourism. He mentioned that trade between the two countries has grown significantly, with a threefold increase over the past five years—from $122 million in 2019 to $387 million in 2023. There is also considerable potential for further growth in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, leather, food processing, and agribusiness. To further promote trade, he announced an upcoming “Made in Uzbekistan” industrial exhibition in Karachi later this year, following the success of the “Made in Pakistan” exhibition held in Tashkent.