ISLAMABAD: In a vibrant celebration of culture and heritage, the Embassy of Uzbekistan hosted a tourism roadshow in Islamabad on Friday.

Held in collaboration with Uzbekistan`s Tourism Committee, the event brought together a large gathering of tour operators, travel agents and diplomats from various embassies, offering guests a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestries of both Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

The roadshow featured multimedia presentations, speeches, and a showcase of traditional Uzbek cuisine, creating an immersive experience for attendees.

Uzbekistan`s Ambassador Alisher Tukhtayev warmly welcomed guests, emphasising the longstanding historical and cultural ties between the two nations. The ambassador said the Uzbekistan Tourism Roadshow brought the Silk Road spirit to Islamabad, as he invited tourists from Pakistan to visit his country, land of awe inspiring ancient architecture and unique culinary experiences.

Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan Umid Shodiev highlighted the deep-rooted connections between the peoples of Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

`Our shared histories stretch back centuries. Though both countries were born in the 20th century, our lands have been linked for over a millennium,` he said, adding that `caravans once crossed the Silk Road, scholars and saints spread knowledge and spirituality, and empires left behind a legacy that still resonates today`.

Umid Shodiev noted that Pakistani visitors often felt an immediate sense of familiarity when walking through Uzbekistan`s historic cities.

`Whether it`s the grand monuments of Samarkand or the architectural beauty of Bukhara, these places echo the spirit of Multan and Thatta centres of learning and trade that were connected through vibrant networks of scholars, merchants, and travelers,`he said. He invited Pakistani tourists to visit the shrines of revered Islamic figures such as Imam Bukhariin Samarkand, Bahauddin Naqshband in Bukhara, and Al-Hakim al-Tirmizi in Termez. Umid Shodiev also pointed to Farghana, the birthplace of Mughal Emperor Babur, as a site of shared architectural and cultural legacy.

He described how Uzbekistan`s tourism sector had undergone significant transformation under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. `With sweeping reforms, increased connectivity, and a welcoming investment environment, Uzbekistan has become one of the fastest-growing and safest travel destinations in the region,` he said. `In 2024 alone, we welcomed over 10 million international visitors.` The chairman emphasised the importance of cultural tourism, with Uzbekistan proudly preserving and promoting its Unesco World Heritage Sites, such as Registan Square in Samarkand and the Ark Fortress in Bukhara. `These landmarks captivate travelers from around the world, but for Pakistani visitors, the connection is deeply personal,` he added.

The senior official, expressed enthusiasm for enhancing collaboration with Pakistan in the tourism sector, suggesting opportunities such as twin-destination packages and joint academic programmes to train future tourism professionals. `Imagine a Timurid-themed tour that begins in Samarkand and continues through Pakistani cities a journey through shared heritage,` he proposed.

He also encouraged Pakistani tour operators to explore Uzbekistan`s growing calendar of cultural events and festivals, which were helping extend the tourism season and boost culinary tourism.

Managing Director of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) Aftabur Rehman Rana welcomed the Uzbek delegation and hailed the event as a valuable platform for deepening tourism cooperation.

`Both nations are blessed with rich histories and landscapes that reflect the spirit of the Silk Road uniting people across cultures and regions,` he said.

Aftabur Rehman Rana emphasised the potential for mutual growth, greater cultural understanding, and economic opportunities through increased tourism exchange. `By opening these doors, we lay the foundation for lasting friendships and a vibrant future,` he added. Jamal Shahid