First Uzbekistan–France Interparliamentary Forum Held in Tashkent

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan hosted the First Uzbekistan–France Interparliamentary Forum, aimed at developing and strengthening the parliamentary dimension of the bilateral strategic partnership.

The event was attended by members of the Senate, a delegation from the Senate of the French Republic led by Senator Valérie Boyer, and representatives from relevant committees and departments of both nations.

Opening the forum, First Deputy Chairman of the Senate Sodiq Safoev noted that the event opens a new chapter in the development of interparliamentary interaction and contributes to the further strengthening of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and France. It was emphasized that the agreements reached at the highest level require active parliamentary support and oversight.

In turn, Valérie Boyer noted the high level of bilateral cooperation, highlighting France's interest in its further development and describing the forum as an effective platform for expanding interparliamentary dialogue. Participants underscored that the forum serves as an important platform for exchanging views and developing coordinated approaches in political, economic, and humanitarian spheres.

The event featured three thematic sessions:

• The first session focused on the development of parliamentary diplomacy, strengthening interparliamentary interaction, and coordinating efforts within the "Central Asia – European Union" format.
• The second session reviewed the expansion of investment and trade cooperation. It was noted that bilateral trade turnover reached $1.4 billion by the end of 2025, alongside increased activity from leading French companies in Uzbekistan.
• The third session was dedicated to cultural and humanitarian cooperation. Specifically, prospects for educational programs and the initiative to establish an Uzbek-French University in Tashkent were discussed.

Following the forum, the parties reaffirmed their readiness to further deepen cooperation, expand interparliamentary contacts, and implement joint initiatives across key areas of interaction.