Mirziyoyev and Tokayev Agree to Strengthen Cooperation in Key Sectors

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The second session of the Supreme Interstate Council was held at the Kuksaroy Residence under the chairmanship of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Opening the meeting, President Mirziyoyev noted that the Supreme Interstate Council format, established in 2024, has proven its relevance and effectiveness. He emphasized that bilateral relations have now reached the highest level of strategic partnership and alliance.

The leaders reviewed new areas of cooperation in detail, discussed mechanisms to fully unlock bilateral potential, and adopted a series of decisions aimed at giving a significant boost to Uzbek-Kazakh interaction.

A key topic was ensuring sustainable growth of bilateral trade and diversifying its structure. It was noted with satisfaction that trade turnover has reached US$4 billion since the beginning of the year, with a target of US$10 billion by 2030. To achieve this, a substantial package of trade and investment agreements has been prepared, the company “UzKazTrade” established, and direct mechanisms for business interaction between the two countries put in place.

The achievements in industrial cooperation were highlighted. During the visit, work will commence at the International Center for Industrial Cooperation “Central Asia,” and a number of projects worth US$1.3 billion will be launched. In addition, a large-scale Industrial Cooperation Program valued at over US$8 billion has been developed, including initiatives in the chemical industry, geology, infrastructure, logistics, agribusiness, and other sectors.

Further development of the transport and logistics partnership was identified as a priority. The leaders emphasized the need for joint efforts to create new transport corridors, including the Uchkuduk–Kyzylorda route, and to stimulate cargo transportation through the ports of Aktau, Kuryk, and Khorgos.

They expressed readiness to expand cooperation in the transportation and processing of energy resources, implementation of energy-saving solutions, green technologies, and digital tools.

Significant attention was given to water and environmental issues. The presidents welcomed the signing of an agreement on the joint management and use of transboundary water bodies, marking an important step toward sustainable regional development.

A separate discussion focused on humanitarian ties. Successful joint cultural events this year were noted, including the “Lazgi” ballet, art exhibitions, writers’ forums, and youth festivals in Almaty and Astana, as well as Kazakhstan Medical Days and Astana Days in Tashkent.

The parties agreed to strengthen cooperation in education, science, and youth development, expand joint university programs, and develop exchanges between cultural institutions. Emphasis was placed on creating common tourist routes and promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage of both countries.

Deputy Prime Ministers and ministers of energy, transport, and culture presented reports on key agenda items during the session.

The meeting concluded with several important decisions aimed at further deepening comprehensive cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.