In a significant step to bolster bilateral relations, Pakistan and Uzbekistan have agreed to declare the Punjab province and the Tashkent region as “brother provinces.” The decision was formalized during a high-level meeting in Lahore between a delegation from Uzbekistan and senior Pakistani leaders .
The seven-member Uzbek delegation, led by the Governor of the Tashkent region, Zoyir Mirzaev, called on PML-N President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif at Jati Umrah . The discussions focused on enhancing economic cooperation and exploring new avenues for partnership between the two countries.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting
The talks resulted in several key agreements and cultural exchanges:
- ‘Brother Provinces’ Declaration: Both sides agreed to formally declare Punjab and Tashkent as brother provinces, a move aimed at fostering closer ties and facilitating cooperation at the sub-national level .
- Economic Cooperation: The delegations discussed boosting collaboration in various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, livestock, meat processing, beverages, and citrus fruits .
- Cultural Exchange: The Uzbek delegation proposed establishing a Babar Park in Lahore to honor the historical and cultural links between the regions. The governor also offered to send Uzbek chefs to train their Pakistani counterparts, following praise for Uzbek cuisine .
- Heritage Preservation: Governor Mirzaev paid tribute to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her efforts in restoring historic Mughal-era buildings in Lahore .
- Official Invitation: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz graciously accepted an invitation to visit Uzbekistan, signaling a commitment to further strengthening these ties .
During the meeting, Mr. Nawaz Sharif reflected on the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between the two peoples. He noted that Pakistanis take immense pride in Uzbekistan’s scientific and cultural heritage, remarking that cities like Samarkand remain a center of knowledge and skills. He fondly recalled that the first Mughal emperor, Babur, hailed from the Fergana Valley, a connection that continues to resonate with Pakistanis today .
Broader Context of Renewed Engagement
This meeting is the latest in a series of high-level engagements between the two countries. In February 2026, the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, met with Mr. Nawaz Sharif in Lahore, where he delivered a letter from Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev .
In that letter, President Mirziyoyev praised Mr. Nawaz Sharif as a “patriotic son of Pakistan” and commended his role in initiating development projects for public welfare. He also lauded Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s governance approach and social sector initiatives . During that February meeting, President Mirziyoyev extended a formal invitation to both Pakistani leaders to visit Uzbekistan, an invitation that was reiterated and accepted in the current talks .
