Pakistan, Aug. 31 -- The story of Zahir-ud-din Muhammad Babur is not merely the history of a ruler who founded the Mughal Empire in the Indian subcontinent. It is also a symbol of the centuries-old cultural connection between Central Asia and South Asia, a connection that Pakistan and Uzbekistan are now seeking to transform into new foundations for modern diplomacy and cooperation.

Born in Andijan, in present-day Uzbekistan, Babur represents a historical bridge between the two societies. For Uzbekistan, he remains one of the region's great historical sons, while for Pakistan and South Asia, the cultural, literary and architectural legacy associated with the Mughal era remains an important part of history.

This shared heritage takes Paki...