Mirziyoyev and Lukashenko Agree to Expand Cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko held talks in narrow and expanded formats in Minsk to discuss the further development of bilateral cooperation and the implementation of joint projects in the economy, industry, humanitarian sphere, and international interaction.

Opening the meeting, Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that Uzbek-Belarusian relations have reached a qualitatively new level in recent years. He emphasized that the preparation for the current official visit was preceded by a series of joint events, including meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission, the Business Council, political consultations, meetings of expert circles, and the Days of Culture of Uzbekistan.

The leaders noted with satisfaction the steady growth of mutual trade. Over the past five years, the trade turnover between the two countries has increased nearly threefold and approached US$1 billion by the end of last year. Since the beginning of this year, this figure has grown by another 30%. Currently, 360 joint ventures are successfully operating.

The heads of state welcomed the approval of an action plan that provides for specific steps to increase mutual trade turnover to US$2 billion. The document also includes new industrial cooperation projects in agriculture, mechanical engineering, pharmaceuticals, electrical engineering, light industry, furniture production, and other sectors.

During the talks, the parties expressed interest in developing cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the creation of related infrastructure.

Special attention was paid to the outcomes of the Third Forum of Regions of Uzbekistan and Belarus, which took place the day before in Minsk. According to the leaders, the package of trade contracts and investment agreements signed during the forum creates additional opportunities for expanding interregional interaction.

The presidents confirmed their intention to continue mutual support within international organizations, including the UN, the CIS, the SCO, and the Non-Aligned Movement. They also emphasized the importance of further developing cultural and humanitarian ties.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev thanked Alexander Lukashenko for the initiative to create an Alley of Uzbek-Belarusian Friendship in Minsk. In addition, the parties agreed to hold joint tourism, medical, and educational forums by the end of this year.

During the meeting, reports from the co-chairs of the Intergovernmental Commission were heard, featuring proposals for the further development of bilateral cooperation. At the conclusion of the talks, the President of Uzbekistan invited Alexander Lukashenko to visit the country on an official visit.