Ferghana and Gomel Strengthen Interregional Partnership

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Cooperation between the Ferghana region of Uzbekistan and the Gomel region of Belarus is entering a new phase. At the Ferghana Reception House, Khokim of Ferghana Region Khairullo Bozorov held talks with a Belarusian delegation led by Ivan Krupko, Chairman of the Gomel Regional Executive Committee, who arrived on a working visit.

The parties discussed prospects for the consistent development of interregional cooperation, including expanding engagement in trade and economic activities, investment, social initiatives, cultural and humanitarian projects, and tourism.

Bozorov emphasized that in recent years, Uzbekistan-Belarus relations have reached a qualitatively new level thanks to the political will of the two countries’ leadership. He noted that this provides a solid foundation for further deepening partnerships between the regions.

The discussions focused on enhancing interaction between chambers of commerce, creating a council of entrepreneurs, organizing business forums, trade missions, exhibitions, and international festivals. Export opportunities were also reviewed.

Among the initiatives is the creation of a furniture cluster in the Buvayda district with participation from Belarusian companies. The parties also considered expanding cooperation in the agricultural sector, including livestock development, meat processing, and the introduction of modern farming equipment.

Education and youth policy were highlighted as separate areas of cooperation. The sides agreed on student and specialist exchanges, joint scientific projects, professional development programs, IT sector development, and the creation of new jobs.

In the tourism sector, measures to promote regional potential through enhanced information exchange were discussed. The Ferghana side presented information on regional investment opportunities, including investor-friendly conditions and benefits in free economic zones.

It was agreed to conduct regular monitoring of agreement implementation via online interaction, with quarterly reporting. This is expected to boost mutual trade, create joint ventures, and effectively utilize investment potential.

Ivan Krupko expressed gratitude for the warm reception and confirmed interest in further developing cooperation.

Following the talks, a roadmap for 2026–2027 between the Ferghana and Gomel regions was signed, along with an agreement on cooperation between the respective chambers of commerce.