Growing Pakistan-Uzbekistan Relations.

Byline: Muhammad Shoaib Khan

Pakistan and Uzbekistan have profound fraternal relations and share deep-rooted cultural and historical linkages. The historic bond between both nations is apparent from the shared Muslim identity and legacy of Islamic scholars of the Islamic Golden Age, such as Imam Bukhari, Imam Tirmzi, and many others. Other aspects solidify the relationship between the two Asian nations. Those aspects are the similar arts, culture, traditions, and values that solidify the relations of both countries, which were part of the ancient silk route. Another historic relation both Pakistan and Uzbekistan share is the descent of the great Mughal Emperor Zaheer-ud-Din Muhammad Babur.

Babur was born in the Fergana Valley, which is in Uzbekistan. The interconnection of both nations is also evident from their national languages having more than 4000 common words. After Uzbekistan's independence from USSR in 1991, Pakistan was one of the first few countries to recognize Uzbekistan. Ever since the recognition, the two nations have expanded their area of cooperation in the economic, cultural, and diplomatic spheres. Bilateral relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan go way back to the very creation of the state of Uzbekistan. Both countries are part of several international and regional organizations, like UN, OIC, ECO, and SCO.

Furthermore, the receptiveness of both nations is also evident from the marks both countries are making through the joint ministerial meetings held regularly. After the independence in the early 1990s, it seemed like a destiny to establish a partnership with Pakistan. Their (Pakistan and Uzbekistan) similar demographic configurations, shared religion and historical connections between Fergana Valley and the Indian sub-continent motivated the establishment of durable and cordial bilateral relations between the two countries. The geographical locations of Pakistan and Uzbekistan are another factor that can help in enhancing bilateral relations between both countries. Both states are located at the cusps of their respective regions and act as connecting points between the resource-rich Central Asian region and the agricultural heartland region of South Asia.

The historically famous Fergana valley in Uzbekistan has remained a commercial transit hub. The valley contributed immensely to the economic progress and development of the entire Asian continent. Currently, the valley continues to be fundamental for the...