Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan Agree to Expand Strategic Partnership and Increase Trade to US$2 Billion

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Talks between the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, continued in an expanded format with the participation of official delegations from both countries.

Opening the meeting, the President of Uzbekistan emphasized that the state visit of the Turkmen leader is a clear demonstration of the strength of the centuries-old ties of friendship and good-neighborliness that unite both peoples.

The parties discussed key issues for the further development of Uzbek-Turkmen relations, noting significant progress in trade, transport, energy, water management, and other areas. President Mirziyoyev particularly highlighted the contribution of the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, to strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Over recent years, mutual trade has doubled, exceeding 1 billion dollars. The leaders noted the potential to increase trade volumes to 2 billion dollars through the expansion of the product range and the effective use of the free trade regime.

A significant contribution to the growth of trade turnover will come from the launch of the Shavat–Dashoguz cross-border trade zone, the experience of which the parties intend to extend to other areas, particularly the Alat–Farab district.

To deepen industrial cooperation, the parties agreed to more actively involve businesses in implementing new projects in the production of building materials, pharmaceuticals, food products, and other high-demand goods. In the energy sector, work will continue on joint initiatives, including the development of promising fields.

The transport sector was identified as a key link between the economies of the two countries. Growth in cargo volumes and the gradual simplification of customs and logistics procedures were noted. An agreement was reached on the joint development of the Turkmenbashi port and the resumption of direct air service between Tashkent and Ashgabat.

To ensure prompt implementation of the agreements, further meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission and the Business Council will take place before the end of the year.

Special attention was given to humanitarian cooperation, which the leaders described as an important foundation for bilateral relations. The successful organization of Turkmenistan Culture Days in Urgench and Tashkent, as well as screenings of Turkmen films, received high praise.

The parties agreed to hold regular mutual concerts and theatrical tours, organize a Youth Forum in Khiva, and continue work on joint film projects. Cooperation in healthcare and medical science is also planned to be expanded.

Following the negotiations, the presidents instructed the preparation of a comprehensive “roadmap” for the implementation of all agreed measures.