ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, has said that Uzbekistan is committed to promoting ease of travel with Pakistan to strengthen tourism, cultural cooperation, and people-to-people ties between the two brotherly nations.
Addressing a special ceremony titled “Bridging Cultures: Tourism Potential of Uzbekistan”, the Ambassador said the historical “Silk Route” has long connected the hearts and souls of the peoples of both countries, and its revival will mark a new milestone in enhancing tourism and cultural linkages.
He announced the appointment of Mr. Hamid Mahmood Chaudhry as the Tourism Brand Ambassador of Uzbekistan in Pakistan, acknowledging his role in promoting tourism and cultural connectivity.
Highlighting Uzbekistan’s spiritual and cultural heritage, the Ambassador said cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Kokand, and Shakhrisabz are living museums of Islamic scholarship, architecture, and art that continue to inspire Muslims worldwide. He invited Pakistani citizens to visit these sacred sites and rediscover their shared spiritual and historical roots.
Ambassador Tukhtaev also announced that from October 28, 2025, Uzbekistan Airways will double its flight frequency between Tashkent and Islamabad, operating twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with affordable fares and a travel time of just 1.5 hours. The airline also runs two weekly flights between Tashkent and Lahore on Wednesdays and Fridays.
He further shared that the ancient city of Samarkand will host the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference from October 30 to November 13, 2025, marking the first time in over 40 years that the event will be held outside Paris — a testament to Uzbekistan’s global recognition in culture, science, and heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, Managing Director Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Aftab ur Rehman Rana, emphasized that direct air connectivity and visa facilitation are vital for enhancing tourism and reviving the deep-rooted spiritual linkages between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
