Tazeen Akhtar
The Tourism Torch from friendly, beautiful, hospitable, welcoming, culturally rich, historically deep into centuries , bravely lion hearted and romantically fascinating , a pearl on silk road, the one and only , the New Uzbekistan arrived Islamabad after its travel through the length of Pakistan from Lahore to Karachi.
Uzbekistan is a country of historically known cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bokhara, Tirmiz, the home to Moghal, Baig, Tirmizi, Bokhari communities and the center of all mentionable sufi orders in Islam, especially home of Imam Bokhari. These connections make a stronger and unbreakable bond between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
The Embassy in Islamabad is rightly working on highlighting the common values and shared history , heritage to shape a meaningful economic partnership under the guidance of Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev for last couple of months.
The embassy after enthralling the citizens of two major cities of Lahore and Karachi in the road shows “Uzbekistan – The Pearl of the Silk Road” there , welcomed the citizens of twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad to the third such attraction on April 11, 2025, to a remarkable and inspiring event took place in Islamabad — the tourism forum “Uzbekistan – The Pearl of the Silk Road”, which brought together over 400 participants, including ambassadors, diplomats, business leaders, tour operators, hospitality industry representatives, and media from across Pakistan.
From the very beginning, participants felt the atmosphere of an open, peaceful, and hospitable Uzbekistan — a country where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern opportunities. Uzbekistan showcased its tourism potential through:
– travel routes along the historic Silk Road,
– sacred sites for pilgrimage and religious tourism,
– rich Eastern culinary heritage,
– medical tourism and world-class recreation opportunities.
The forum featured inspiring speeches by: – Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan Mr. A. Tukhtayev,
– Chairman of the Committee for Tourism of Uzbekistan Mr. U. Shadiev,
– Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Mr. Aftab ur-Rehman, along with other distinguished speakers.
The speakers emphasized that:
Under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has become a safe, open, and highly attractive destination for international tourism.
The B2B and G2B meetings confirmed the keen interest of the Pakistani side in establishing long-term partnerships. Key topics included:
– the development of new routes and joint tourism packages,
– expansion of direct air connectivity,
– promotion of mutual investments and cross-marketing of tourism services.
The forum was further enriched by:
– a concert featuring masters of traditional Uzbek performing arts,
– an exhibition of national handicrafts and traditional clothing,
– a delightful gala dinner by world-renowned Uzbek chef Bakhritdin Chustiy, who presented plov, somsa, halva, dried fruits, and classic oriental sweets — met with great appreciation by the guests.
The friendship between Uzbekistan and Pakistan is more than diplomacy — it is the warmth of hearts, respect for shared history, and confidence in a common future. Tourism is the most beautiful bridge that connects not just countries, but people.
Ambassador delivered a mindful speech at the occasion to share the unbreakable relations between the two brotherly countries. He said, both regions were connected by culture, trade, and history. Our ancient cities share common history and culture. While Islamabad is a modern city, it still shows the influence of Islamic civilization – just like our historic cities Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
” The bond between Uzbekistan and Pakistan goes back to the times of Amir Timur and Zahiriddin Babur. We have shared values, religion, and traditions. Now it is our important duty to turn this strong connection into real opportunities for tourism and business, H.E Tukhtaev noted.
As mentioned by the Ambassador both governments are working on simpler visa regimes, direct flights, and growing partnerships between touristic companies. Thanks to direct flights of Uzbekistan Airline from Lahore and Karachi, thousands of Pakistanis are visiting the beautiful cities of Uzbekistan – and Uzbeks visiting Lahore, Karachi, and other touristic destinations in Pakistan.
On tourism infrastructure development and facilitation for the tourists, Ambassador shared , ” The Uzbek government is working hard to make tourism better. We are fixing roads, restoring historical places, and creating partnerships with other countries to bring more tourists. Uzbekistan is not only for people who love history. It is also great destination for adventure lovers and nature fans. We have mountains, deserts, and green valleys for hiking, eco-tourism, and outdoor fun. Our Kyzylkum desert and mountain areas are perfect for unique travel experiences.”
Food is always one of the main attractions for the tourists. Uzbek cuisine also brings more unforgettable memories. Dishes like palov, shashlik, and samsa are loved by many visitors.
“Uzbekistan is also a good place for health and wellness tourism. We have natural springs and resorts where people can relax and feel better. These healing places are open for our Pakistani friends too, Ambassador continued.
H.E welcomed Pakistani investors to build hotels, run transport services, or organize cultural events in Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is also working on training tourism workers and building partnerships between our schools and universities. This will help create professionals who offer great service.
“We are also using digital tools to make travel easier. Now we have online bookings, virtual tours, and smart platforms to help tourists plan their trips. Today is a new beginning in tourism relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, Mr. A. Tukhtaev added.
He invited all participants to work together to create joint travel packages, cultural events, and new innovative ideas for tourists.
Uzbekistan is full of amazing history, culture, and nature. Our country lies in the heart of Central Asia and was part of the old Silk Road. Cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are full of beautiful mosques, palaces, and madrasas. These cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and show the greatness of our past.
Country Manager Uzbekistan Airlines , Mr. Bukhtiyar addressed in Urdu and left pleasant impressions on the guests with his addition qualification of pleasant gestures as well. Editor Pakistan in the World Mr. Tazeen Akhtar shared his views as frequent visitor to Uzbekistan from Pakistan. He convinced the guests to visit Uzbekistan once at least and they will see for themselves how beautiful and welcoming and last but not the least affordable country Uzbekistan is.
