Pakistan, Uzbekistan discuss sister city status for Islamabad and Tashkent

Islamabad: Chairman Capital Development Authority and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa met Uzbekistan’s Ambassador Alisher Tukhtayev at the CDA Headquarters on Wednesday, where both sides discussed matters of mutual interest and ways to further strengthen bilateral relations.

During the meeting, Randhawa said Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Uzbekistan, describing the country as a close and brotherly partner. He said Pakistan and Uzbekistan shared deep cultural, social and religious commonalities, which provided a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation.

The CDA chairman proposed granting sister city status to Islamabad and Tashkent, saying such an initiative would help strengthen people-to-people and city-level ties. In response, the Uzbek ambassador suggested allocating a dedicated area representing Uzbekistan in Islamabad’s F-9 Park. Randhawa said such an area could be allocated in F-9 Park or any other suitable location, including the Gardenia Hub.

Ambassador Tukhtayev praised the CDA’s efforts for the development and beautification of the federal capital, terming Islamabad an exceptionally green, clean and naturally beautiful city. He said the city’s greenery and planning reflected Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable urban development.

The meeting also discussed the possibility of relocating the Uzbek Embassy to Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave. Randhawa said the proposal should be forwarded through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and assured full facilitation from the CDA. He also briefed the ambassador on ongoing beautification and upgradation work in the Diplomatic Enclave.

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Additionally, the Uzbek ambassador proposed naming a highway in Islamabad as “New Uzbekistan.” Randhawa said the matter would be taken up with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and that the CDA would fully support the process.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation, benefiting from each other’s experiences and strengthening bilateral relations at the city and institutional levels.