Uzbekistan and Pakistan agree on new joint projects in tourism

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties, increasing mutual tourist flows, training and upskilling professionals in the tourism industry, developing direct contacts between tourism businesses, and exploring joint programs to support the growth of the sector.

The head of PTDC praised Uzbekistan’s systematic and consistent reforms in the tourism field and expressed support for the country’s initiatives in this direction.

Both sides emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation in education and workforce development, particularly through partnerships between tourism-related universities, reciprocal scholarship opportunities, and exchange programs for students and professionals. Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana confirmed the readiness of one of Pakistan’s leading institutions – the College of Tourism and Hotel Management – to collaborate with Uzbek counterparts.

He also highlighted the significance of launching direct flights by Uzbekistan Airways from Tashkent to Lahore and Islamabad, which have made travel much easier for Pakistani tourists.

The two parties also considered ways to simplify visa procedures for citizens of both countries through direct dialogue between the relevant ministries and agencies, as well as by aligning the process with modern international standards.

As a result of the talks, the sides reached the following agreements:

• an online forum will be held in August with the participation of tourism organizations, tour operator associations, and business communities from both countries;
• new pilgrimage tourism routes will be developed for Pakistani visitors to Uzbekistan;
• media content will be produced to promote each country’s tourism potential;
• memorandums of understanding will be signed between tourism-focused higher education institutions.