ISSI Hosts Book Launch — “Shavkat Mirziyoyev: A Great Leader of Reforms and Regional Integration”
Islamabad (Press Release):
The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in collaboration with the Embassy of Uzbekistan, hosted the launch ceremony of the book titled “Shavkat Mirziyoyev: A Great Leader of Reforms and Regional Integration.” The Chief Guest on the occasion was Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division.
Other speakers included Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI; Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director, China-Pakistan Study Centre, ISSI; H.E. Alisher Tuhtayev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan; Dr. Mehmood-ul-Hasan Khan, author; Major General (R) Syed Khalid Amir Jaffery, President of the Centre for South Asia and International Studies; and Professor Dr. Adam Saud, Dean, Bahria University Islamabad.
The event began with the national anthems of Pakistan and Uzbekistan, followed by a documentary highlighting the achievements and vision of H.E. Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Talat Shabbir congratulated Dr. Mehmood-ul-Hasan Khan on his valuable contribution, noting that the book reflects President Mirziyoyev’s visionary leadership and Uzbekistan’s dynamic reform process. He also highlighted the growing momentum in Pakistan-Uzbekistan relations and their shared vision for regional connectivity.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood praised the author’s insightful and comprehensive study, which vividly portrays Uzbekistan’s transformation under the visionary leadership of President Mirziyoyev. He stated that since assuming office in 2016, President Mirziyoyev has led an ambitious reform agenda that has strengthened internal governance and reshaped Uzbekistan’s foreign policy outlook. He commended the Uzbek President’s inclusive approach, focus on modernization, and efforts to build a “social state” emphasizing education, poverty alleviation, and job creation.
Highlighting Uzbekistan’s proactive diplomacy, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood referred to initiatives such as the Trans-Afghan Railway and the Surkhan–Pul-e-Khumri Power Transmission Project, underscoring Uzbekistan’s constructive role in enhancing regional cooperation and connectivity. He noted that Pakistan and Uzbekistan share deep-rooted bonds of faith, history, and culture, and that their relationship has evolved into a strategic partnership based on mutual trust and shared aspirations.
He also underlined Pakistan’s “Vision Central Asia,” which encompasses five key pillars — political and diplomatic engagement, trade and economic cooperation, energy and connectivity, security and defence, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges. He added that regional projects such as CPEC, CASA-1000, and the Trans-Afghan Railway are vital for realizing the shared vision of greater connectivity. Ambassador Mahmood also suggested that Pakistan and Uzbekistan jointly commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Mughal Empire’s founding in 2026 by Zaheer-ud-din Babar, a proud son of the Ferghana Valley in Uzbekistan.
Chief Guest Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi stated that the book celebrates the visionary leadership shaping Uzbekistan’s progressive future. He noted that President Mirziyoyev’s reform agenda serves as a model for others and emphasized that growing connectivity is bringing Pakistan and Uzbekistan closer together. Appreciating the Uzbek President’s vision, he said the book reflects the strengthening of bilateral relations.
Ambassador Alisher Tuhtayev lauded the strong friendship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan and said the book represents years of dedicated academic research into Uzbekistan’s economic model and reform strategy. He described it as a significant contribution that deepens mutual understanding and strengthens ties between the two nations.
Dr. Mehmood-ul-Hasan Khan expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Uzbekistan, academic institutions, and think-tanks for their cooperation, stating that the book marks a proud moment for Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and the wider Central Asian region. He said the book, covering over 39 thematic areas, reflects the deepening strategic partnership and shared developmental vision between the two countries.
Major General (R) Syed Khalid Amir Jaffery highlighted Uzbekistan’s transformation under President Mirziyoyev’s “New Uzbekistan” vision — emphasizing openness, modernization, and global integration. He noted progress in economic liberalization, infrastructure, renewable energy, and human capital development, calling Uzbekistan a dynamic and forward-looking nation.
Professor Dr. Adam Saud stated that under President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, Uzbekistan’s per capita income has doubled, reflecting robust economic progress. He noted that enhanced intra-regional trade and connectivity are benefiting both Central and South Asia, especially Pakistan. He also emphasized the importance of academic collaboration and encouraged scholars to study the book for a deeper understanding of Uzbekistan’s reform journey.
The event was attended by diplomats, senior government officials, academics, think-tank experts, and media representatives.
