The “Food Fest Uzbekistan – 2025” exhibition has successfully launched in Islamabad
Islamabad, Pakistan – The highly anticipated Food Fest Uzbekistan – 2025 exhibition officially launched in the heart of Pakistan at the “Centaurus Mall” shopping center Islamabad, marking a significant milestone in cultural and culinary exchange between Uzbekistan and Pakistan. The event, held at a prestigious venue in the capital city, has drawn widespread attention from food enthusiasts, business leaders, and government officials, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Uzbekistan while fostering stronger bilateral ties.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Just two weeks ago, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited Uzbekistan, where important agreements were reached at the highest level. The leaders of the two countries set an ambitious goal to increase trade turnover to $2 billion. This exhibition is the first major step towards achieving that goal. !The Food Fest Uzbekistan – 2025 is more than just a culinary event, it serves as a platform to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan. The leadership of Pakistan’s Ministry of Trade from both countries and Ambassadors from over 30 countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Russia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Portugal, Indonesia, Sri Lanka attended the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in promoting mutual understanding and collaboration.
In his opening remarks, the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan H.E Alisher Tukhtaev, express that this is not just an exhibition it is clear evidence that Uzbekistan and Pakistan are entering a new era of economic relations.
We are not only strengthening trade ties but also building strong bridges of friendship between our nation shighlighted the shared historical and cultural connections between the two nations. He also expressed optimism that the exhibition would pave the way for increased trade, particularly in the food and agriculture sectors, and foster people-to-people connections. Pakistani officials echoed these sentiments, praising Uzbekistan for its efforts to introduce its culture to Pakistan and expressing hope for future collaborations in tourism, education, and trade.
Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan H.E Alisher Tukhtaev highly appreciate to Sardar Ilyas, the CEO of “Centaurus Mall,” for his invaluable support in organizing this exhibition!
His efforts and dedication to enhancing trade relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan have turned this festival into not just a major event but a landmark occasion for both nations.
A Celebration of Uzbek Cuisine and Culture
The exhibition offers a vibrant showcase of Uzbekistan’s diverse culinary traditions, featuring an array of authentic dishes such as plov (a flavorful rice dish), samsa (savory pastries), shashlik (grilled kebabs), and an assortment of traditional sweets like halva and navat. Visitors are also treated to live cooking demonstrations, where master chefs from Uzbekistan prepare these iconic dishes, offering a glimpse into the artistry and techniques behind Uzbek cuisine.
In addition to the food, the event highlights Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage. Attendees can explore traditional Uzbek crafts, textiles, and music, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond the palate. The exhibition also features cultural performances, including folk dances and musical acts, adding to the festive atmosphere.
A Hub for Business and Networking
The exhibition also serves as a hub for business networking, with 25 leading Uzbek producers and exporters showcasing their products to potential Pakistani partners. From dried fruits and nuts to spices and dairy products, the event provides a unique opportunity for Pakistani businesses to explore partnerships with Uzbek companies.
A dedicated business forum was organized on the sidelines of the exhibition, where entrepreneurs from both countries discussed opportunities for collaboration and investment. The forum emphasized the potential for joint ventures in food processing, packaging, and distribution, aiming to tap into the growing demand for high-quality, exotic food products in both markets.
A Resounding Success
The opening day of the Food Fest Uzbekistan – 2025 was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with thousands of visitors flocking to the venue to experience the flavors and culture of Uzbekistan. The event is expected to attract even larger crowds in the coming days, solidifying its place as a key cultural and economic initiative.
As the exhibition continues, it promises to leave a lasting impression on Islamabad’s culinary scene while strengthening the bonds between Uzbekistan and Pakistan. The Food Fest Uzbekistan – 2025 is not just a celebration of food; it is a testament to the power of cultural exchange in bringing nations closer together.
The exhibition will run until 16 march, offering food lovers and cultural enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore the best of Uzbekistan without leaving Islamabad. Don’t miss this extraordinary event that promises to delight your senses and broaden your horizons!
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
