Rustam Minnikhanov expressed confidence that the visit of the Uzbek delegation to Kazan will contribute to further development of cooperation between Tatarstan and Uzbekistan, aimed at strengthening Russian-Uzbek relations.

President of Tatarstan stressed that the volume of mutual trade between Tatarstan and Uzbekistan does not yet reflect all available opportunities: “We see great prospects for cooperation. This is facilitated by our similar languages, culture and customs. But most importantly, there is a will and will of the top leadership of both countries”."

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev identified the strengthening of interregional cooperation as a priority in development of Russian-Uzbek relations, Rustam Minnikhanov said.

He said that Tatarstan has extensive experience in development of the oil and petrochemical industry. The key enterprises in this industry are Tatneft and Taif. Rustam Minnikhanov proposed to consider all possible options for cooperation in this area: from the supply of finished products to Uzbekistan and implementation of joint projects prior to cooperation in the part of training of industry specialists.

Uzbekistan, in its turn, has a developed branch of light industry. "I am confident that we will be able to establish contacts in this area. We should invite Uzbek business to the republic, offer them all the necessary conditions, provide appropriate support,” Rustam Minnikhanov said.

President of Tatarstan also noted the need to activate tourism links, cooperation in engineering, construction, housing and communal services, health, agriculture, information, culture and a number of other areas.

Rustam Minnikhanov suggested Gulomjon Ibrahimov to organize additional mutual visits of representatives of business circles and to determine key business projects by the end of the month.

Gulomjon Ibragimov, in turn, said that the leadership of Uzbekistan is interested in building up cooperation with Tatarstan.

"Tatarstan has extensive experience in a number of areas. We can take a lot from you, and also solve problems in common. Today we have serious intentions to cooperate with KAMAZ, Tatneft and other large enterprises of the republic. The main thing is that we decided on the mechanisms for further work. I think we will be able to start certain projects this year,” he added.