The inaugural direct flight of Uzbekistan Airways from Tashkent to Islamabad was accorded a warm and festive reception upon its arrival at Islamabad International Airport, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity and bilateral relations.
The welcome ceremony was attended by key dignitaries and officials from both Pakistan and Uzbekistan. Among the prominent attendees were H.E. Mr. Alisher Tukhtaev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan; Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC); Syed Aftab Ali Shah Gilani, Islamabad Airport Manager; and Mr. Bakhtiyor Muminov, Country Manager of Uzbekistan Airways. Diplomats from other Central Asian states, along with senior representatives from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), PTDC, and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), were also present.
In his remarks, Ambassador Tukhtaev hailed the launch of the direct route as a strategic development in Uzbekistan–Pakistan relations.
“This direct air link marks a strategic advancement in bilateral relations and aligns with the broader goals of the Central and South Asia Connectivity Initiatives,” he noted.
He further emphasized that the new air route will foster econCAomic cooperation, enhance people-to-people contact, support educational exchange, and promote cultural collaboration between the two nations.
Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director of PTDC, acknowledged the visionary leadership of the President of Uzbekistan and Prime Minister of Pakistan, whose support made this initiative possible.
“This inaugural flight is a significant step forward in strengthening air connectivity between two brotherly nations,” he said.
Mr. Rana noted that this route fulfills a long-standing regional demand raised at platforms such as the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for enhanced connectivity. He highlighted the immense tourism potential this route unlocks for both countries.
“For Pakistani travelers, Uzbekistan’s historic Silk Road cities — Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva — are now more accessible than ever. Likewise, Uzbek tourists can explore Pakistan’s northern mountains, spiritual heritage, and cultural landmarks with greater ease,” he stated.
He also pointed to the growing interest in tourism exchanges, underscoring shared cultural, religious, and historical ties between the two nations. The new weekly flight is expected to facilitate not only tourism but also student mobility, business travel, and pilgrimage.
The launch of this direct air route marks a new era of cross-border cooperation, regional integration, and enhanced diplomatic and economic engagement between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
