Gilani, Karimov discuss trade, economic ties
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, March 24 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Thursday said Pakistan was keen to establish energy and infrastructure connectivity with the Central Asian Republics to enhance trade and economic ties. Gilani who called on the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov here at the Oksaroy Palace, also discussed regional situation and bilateral ties besides covering wide-ranging issues.The two leaders discussed regional scenario particularly in the backdrop of gradual withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan. Both the leaders noted the need for an active interaction for a peaceful transition of Afghanistan as both the countries have a direct interest in the war-ravaged country.
President Karimov and Prime Minister Gilani noted that Tashkent and Islamabad have a similarity of views on important international and regional issues.
He said that connectivity between the two countries, through Afghanistan, would increase trade and people to people contacts. He said Uzbekistan could also benefit from the Pakistani sea ports at Gwadar and Karachi and find new markets in the Middle East and Europe.
There have been high-level contacts between the two countries in the recent past. President Asif Ali Zardari had a meeting on the sidelines of the SCO summit at Tashkent in June 2010 with President Karimov.
Prime Minister Gilani also thanked Uzbek government for its humanitarian aid following the devastating summer floods last year.
Minister for food and agriculture Israr Ullah Zehri, Minister for Privatization Syed Naveed Qamar and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar are accompanying the Prime Minister.