ISLAMABAD, Friday, February 6, 2026 (WNP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday hosted President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, where the two leaders held wide-ranging talks aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across key sectors, including trade, regional connectivity, defence, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

The meeting took place during President Mirziyoyev’s state visit to Pakistan and reflected the shared commitment of Islamabad and Tashkent to elevate their longstanding friendly ties into a more comprehensive strategic partnership. Both sides underscored the importance of enhancing economic engagement, boosting trade and investment flows, and improving connectivity to unlock the full potential of regional cooperation, particularly between South and Central Asia.

The leaders also exchanged views on defence and security cooperation, agreeing to explore avenues for closer collaboration, capacity building, and institutional linkages. Emphasis was placed on cultural cooperation and people-to-people contacts as a foundation for sustainable bilateral relations and mutual understanding between the two nations.

During the ceremony, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the Nishan-e-Pakistan, the country’s highest civilian award, on President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in recognition of his outstanding services to strengthening Pakistan-Uzbekistan relations and promoting regional peace, stability, and cooperation.

The honour was received with appreciation by the Uzbek president, who reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening ties with Pakistan.

President Mirziyoyev expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Pakistani leadership and people, and conveyed Uzbekistan’s desire to work closely with Pakistan in advancing shared economic, cultural, and regional objectives. He noted that closer cooperation between the two countries would contribute to greater prosperity and stability in the wider region.

The engagement at Aiwan-e-Sadr marked a significant milestone in Pakistan-Uzbekistan relations, reinforcing mutual trust and laying the groundwork for expanded collaboration in the years ahead.