Islamabad, June 14, 2025 – The Europe Today: In a significant step towards enhancing regional connectivity and fostering stronger bilateral relations, Uzbekistan Airways has officially inaugurated a direct flight route between Tashkent and Islamabad. The landmark event marks a new era of cooperation between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, promising enhanced trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchange.
The inaugural flight, operated by a modern Airbus A320 NEO, touched down at Islamabad International Airport at 11:50 AM local time, carrying 168 passengers. A traditional water cannon salute greeted the aircraft, symbolizing a warm welcome and celebrating the beginning of a new chapter in diplomatic and civil aviation ties.
The occasion was graced by distinguished guests, including senior officials from Pakistan’s Ministry of Aviation, the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), the Islamabad Capital Territory Administration, and ambassadors and diplomats from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan. Over 20 leading tour operators, media representatives, and members of the public also joined the celebrations.
A press conference organized by the Embassy of Uzbekistan was held at the airport to mark this historic milestone. Representatives from the Pakistani media, tourism industry, and civil society took part in the event.
Mr. Aftab ur-Rehman Rana, Director General of the PTDC, remarked,
“Thanks to the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, this is the third regular flight launched between our countries in the past six months. The new route will greatly facilitate mutual visits, boost tourism flows, and lay a solid foundation for strengthening people-to-people diplomacy.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Saeed Aftab Gilani, Director of Islamabad International Airport, stated,
“These flights will inject new momentum into trade, business, and academic relations. We are already working on launching new routes between other cities of our two countries.”
Just six months ago, there were no direct air links between Uzbekistan and Pakistan. Today, regular flights connect Tashkent with Islamabad and Lahore, a testament to the rapidly growing partnership. The expansion of air routes reflects the visionary leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who has been instrumental in positioning Uzbekistan as a hub of openness, development, and regional cooperation.
Pakistan continues to be a steadfast strategic partner for Uzbekistan, united by shared values, deep-rooted historical ties, and a common aspiration for regional peace and prosperity.
As direct flights take off between Tashkent and Islamabad, they carry more than passengers—they carry the hopes of friendship, mutual respect, and a stronger future for both nations.
