Putin Congratulates Mirziyoyev on Navruz, Discusses Cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a phone call, congratulated Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and all citizens of the country on the spring festival of Navruz, the Kremlin press service reported.

During the conversation, the leaders discussed the implementation of several major joint projects in nuclear energy, industrial production, and transport infrastructure.

It was noted that Uzbekistan recently held the ceremony for the start of concrete works at the site of a Russian-designed nuclear power plant. Additionally, on 16 March, the third copper processing plant at the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Complex was launched, equipped with machinery from leading Russian engineering companies.

The presidents also exchanged views on key international issues, including the situation in the Middle East and matters related to the conflict in Ukraine.

Following the discussion, both sides agreed to continue active cooperation to comprehensively strengthen the Russia-Uzbekistan strategic partnership and alliance.

The press service of the President of Uzbekistan reported that during recent talks, the leaders discussed key issues for the further development and strengthening of Uzbekistan-Russia relations within the framework of comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance.

The parties noted with satisfaction the growth of trade and economic interaction: by the end of 2025, trade turnover reached US$13 billion, a 10 percent increase compared to the previous year, and it has grown by another 32 percent since the beginning of 2026.

Major joint projects continue to be implemented in industry, energy, transport, and other priority sectors of the economy. Special attention is being given to the construction of Uzbekistan’s first nuclear power plant. The activities of the joint Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation received high praise.

The leaders also discussed preparations for the International Industrial Exhibition “INNOPROM. Central Asia,” scheduled for April in Tashkent, which will serve as an effective platform for showcasing new projects and forms of cooperation.

Additionally, the conversation covered current international issues, including the situation in the Middle East, South Asia, and Ukraine, and an agreed schedule of upcoming events was established.