Uzbekistan and the EU Sign Agreement on Enhanced Partnership

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — An Uzbek-European summit is being held at the headquarters of the European Council in Brussels, the press service of the President of Uzbekistan reported.

In the presence of the leaders, an Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Union was signed.

The new document not only institutionalizes political dialogue but also establishes a legal framework for bilateral cooperation based on the principles of economic pragmatism and mutual benefit.

The agreement replaces the previous 1996 treaty, restructuring relations in line with the demands of the modern global economy.

Key economic priorities include adherence to free-market principles, reduction of technical barriers, simplification of customs procedures, and liberalization of trade in services.

For Uzbekistan, the agreement opens new opportunities to expand exports to European markets, implement production systems meeting international standards, and accelerate the inflow of foreign direct investment. The document also promotes active use of GSP+ preferences and expedites the country’s integration into the World Trade Organization.

Beyond the economic sphere, the agreement covers human rights, judicial independence, gender equality, and support for civil society, thereby strengthening the sustainability of national reforms and enhancing international confidence in the country.

Thus, the new agreement establishes a partnership model that prioritizes economic pragmatism and practical interests over geopolitical considerations, opening prospects for sustainable and mutually beneficial cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Union.

Negotiations on the draft of the new Agreement between Uzbekistan and the European Union began in February 2019 and concluded in July 2022. The document was initialed on 6 July 2022 in Brussels.

The Agreement comprises nine sections, 356 articles, and 14 annexes. It covers virtually all areas of bilateral relations and establishes a comprehensive legal framework to strengthen political dialogue and deepen cooperation across all mutually beneficial domains. Special attention is given to trade and investment, sustainable development, science and education, innovation and high technology, as well as environmental protection and climate change issues.