15/06/2025
Inaugural Flight from Tashkent to Islamabad Receives Warm Welcome at Islamabad International Airport
The inaugural direct flight of Uzbekistan Airways from Tashkent to Islamabad was warmly received today upon its arrival at Islamabad International Airport. A welcome ceremony marked the historic occasion, attended by prominent dignitaries and officials from both nations.
Among those present were H.E. Mr. Alisher Tukhtaev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan; Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Syed Aftab Ali Shah Gilani, Islamabad Airport Manager; Mr. Bakhtiyor Muminov, Country Manager of Uzbekistan Airways along with diplomats from other Central Asian states and senior officials from Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), PTDC, and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Ambassador Tukhtaev praised the launch of the new direct route, emphasizing its potential to enhance economic and trade ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan. “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 stated.
"This new route will not only deepen bilateral ties across multiple sectors but also play a pivotal role in boosting regional tourism, fostering people-to-people contact, facilitating business travel, educational exchange, and promoting cultural cooperation," Mr. Alisher added.
Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director of PTDC, appreciated the efforts of President of Uzbekistan and Prime Minister of Pakistan for their comments to materialize this initiative. He lauded the inaugural flight as a "significant step forward in strengthening air connectivity between two brotherly nations." He highlighted that this long-awaited air route addresses a consistent demand raised at regional forums such as the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to improve regional connectivity.
Emphasizing the tourism potential, he noted that the direct connection will encourage two-way tourism flows. “For Pakistani travelers, Uzbekistan’s legendary Silk Road cities — Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva — are now more accessible than ever. Similarly, Uzbek tourists can now explore Pakistan’s majestic northern mountains, spiritual heritage sites, and vibrant cultural landmarks with greater ease.”
Mr. Rana also pointed out that tourism exchanges between the two countries have steadily increased in recent years due to shared historical ties, cultural heritage, and religious affinity. The new weekly flight provides a reliable and cost-effective travel option for tourists, students, pilgrims, and professionals seeking enriching cross-border experiences.
