The agreement was signed in Tashkent after the conclusion of 4th session of Pak‑Uzbek Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC). The Chairman of the JMC from Pakistan side Minister for Water and Power, Raja Pervez Ashraf and the Uzbek Minister for Agriculture and Water Management Safiuddin Ismailove signed the protocol.

The 4th session of the JMC was held at Tashkent from 17 to 18 April. The session discussed various proposals to enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation and stressed the need for joint strategy in this regard.

The Minister for Water and Power, Raja Pervez Ashraf also called on the Uzbek Prime Minister and delivered a special message of good wishes of the Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani to him.

The Minister urged for opening of a branch of National Bank of Pakistan in Tashkent. He said that the government of Pakistan is considering a request of Uzbekistan for provision of transport facilities at Gawadar Port and Port Qasim.

He also informed him the Federal Cabinet has ratified the transit trade agreement with Uzbekistan. The Uzbek Prime Minister during the meeting assured that the necessary formalities are being finalized for opening of branch of National Bank in Tashkent.

Uzbek PM also expressed his good wishes and solidarity with Pakistan for its fight against terrorism.

Pervez Ashraf also held meetings with the Uzbek Minister of Commerce, Water, Economic Affairs and the delegation of chamber of commerce and industry. They all assured of their full cooperation and joint venture projects in Pakistan.