Uzbekistan’s Doors Always Open for Pakistani Athletes: Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev

By: Aziz Khatri

KARACHI: In a recent meeting, Alisher Tukhtaev, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan, reaffirmed his country's commitment to fostering sports cooperation with Pakistan. He emphasized that Uzbekistan's doors are always open to Pakistani athletes and expressed readiness to assist companies interested in collaborative endeavors in the sports sector.

The Ambassador made these statements during his meeting with Rais Khan, Chief Executive Officer of RK Sports Management, at a local auditorium in Karachi. The discussion was also attended by Albina Murtaza, highlighting the gathering's significance. Rais Khan provided the Ambassador with an overview of RK Sports Management’s initiatives, noting the organization's success in hosting competitions across various sports, including football, hockey, cricket, padel, squash, marathon, and boxing. He emphasized the organization’s dedication to supporting talented athletes, particularly focusing on promoting the capabilities of women in sports. “Our objective is to support talented players. We are especially taking steps to highlight the abilities of women athletes so that their talent can be presented to the world,” Khan stated. Khan revealed that RK Sports Management has recently been granted membership in the European Football Agents Association, which he described as a significant honor. “This step will provide Pakistani players with easier opportunities to play in Europe,” he added. He expressed that the historical ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan offer a strong foundation for expanded cooperation in the sports sector. A delegation from RK Sports Management is set to visit Uzbekistan soon to discuss potential arrangements for hosting various sports events. Ambassador Tukhtaev acknowledged Pakistan's esteemed position in the global sports arena, recognizing its achievements in multiple international competitions. He reiterated Uzbekistan's support for Pakistani companies wishing to collaborate in sports. In an effort to bolster these ties, the Ambassador highlighted Uzbekistan's recent relaxation of visa requirements for Pakistani citizens and the establishment of direct flights between the two nations. “By increasing cooperation in various fields, both countries can achieve economic progress,” Tukhtaev stated. He concluded with a warm invitation, saying, “Uzbekistan’s doors are always open for Pakistan. There are vast opportunities for Pakistani investors and industrialists in our country.”

As both nations look to strengthen their ties, the potential for collaborative ventures in sports and beyond appears promising.