Uzbekistan Airways is set to launch direct international flights to Pakistan, marking a milestone in strengthening connectivity between the two countries. With the active support of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), direct flights between Tashkent and Islamabad will begin on May 24, 2025, with private airlines also joining efforts to boost trade and tourism.
The announcement came following a high-level meeting between the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, and Uzbekistan’s Minister for Tourism, Umid Shadiev. The Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, was also present.
The meeting highlighted the significant potential for bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector. Khan expressed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening tourism relations, encouraging cultural exchange, and safeguarding the shared heritage of both nations
Uzbekistan’s Minister for Tourism, Umid Shadiev, praised the growing partnership and highlighted that several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) have already been signed to bolster bilateral cooperation. He emphasized the need to support the aspirations of both nations' people through sustained collaboration.
Khan stressed that tourism not only strengthens cultural ties but also contributes to GDP growth and export development. Additionally, he confirmed that PIA will soon launch direct flights to Uzbekistan, and private carriers will play a key role in enhancing regional linkages. Efforts are also underway to simplify visa procedures and improve travel services to facilitate cross-border movement.
Initially operating on weekdays, these flights mark more than just a new route—they establish a strategic air link that reflects deepening ties and shared aspirations between the two nations
The new route joins the already-operational Tashkent–Lahore flights, which currently run twice weekly on Wednesdays and Fridays.
The expansion of air connectivity is being hailed as a result of clear strategic vision, continued hard work, and strong leadership in both countries.
Strengthening Economic and Trade Ties
Pakistan was among the earliest nations to acknowledge Uzbekistan's independence in 1991, with formal diplomatic relations established the following year. Since then, economic cooperation between the two countries has grown consistently.
Bilateral trade has increased significantly—from $122mn in 2019 to $387mn in 2023. In 2024, it exceeded $400mn, accompanied by the establishment of 130 joint ventures. In the first two months of 2025, trade between the two countries reached $82.6mn.
To further boost trade, dedicated trading houses have been launched in both Karachi and Tashkent.
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