Uzbek and EU Leaders Welcome Elevation of Bilateral Relations to a New Strategic Level

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A meeting took place at the European Council headquarters in Brussels between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of the European Council, António Costa, along with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

During the talks, the parties discussed prospects for further expanding multifaceted Uzbek-European cooperation in the context of implementing agreements reached at the first “Central Asia – EU” summit in Samarkand in April of this year.

The leaders highly praised the historic Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the European Union. It was noted that the document not only strengthens the legal framework for interaction but also establishes a new strategic cooperation agenda, opening opportunities to deepen ties with EU member states in trade, investment, transport, energy, climate policy, high technology, as well as cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

The parties also welcomed the completion of bilateral negotiations with the EU regarding Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization. The high quality of contacts and exchanges at all levels was emphasized. Ahead of the visit, the Uzbek delegation participated in the second EU “Global Gateways” forum, and on the eve of the meetings, sessions of the Cooperation Council and the Subcommittee on Economy, Trade, and Investment were held.

Yesterday, a major joint business forum took place, followed today by meetings with leaders of leading European companies and financial institutions. As a result of the negotiations, agreements were reached on implementing new projects worth over 10 billion euros in energy, chemical industry, critical minerals extraction, logistics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. These initiatives complement the existing portfolio of projects with European companies, which exceeds 40 billion euros.

To maintain the high momentum of the partnership, the leaders stressed the need to strengthen institutional cooperation mechanisms, implement new investment projects in critical minerals, energy, transport, science, and education, as well as simplify visa procedures to stimulate business and humanitarian ties.

Additionally, current international issues and regional cooperation matters were discussed.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of a Joint Statement.