Uzbekistan, Austria Expand Trade and Economic Cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan held talks on 7 May with a delegation from the Republic of Austria, including Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger and Federal Minister of the Interior Gerhard Karner. At the start of the meeting, the Austrian side conveyed greetings and best wishes from Austrian Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen.

During the talks, the two sides discussed further development of practical cooperation between the two countries. It was noted that relations have shown steady positive dynamics, with bilateral trade turnover increasing threefold in recent years.

The parties reviewed the current state and prospects of joint projects across various sectors of the economy, including building materials production, mountain tourism, healthcare, the chemical industry, agriculture, and banking and financial services. It was emphasized that several initiatives are already in active implementation stages.

Special attention was given to the work of the intergovernmental commission, as well as the outcomes of a business forum held during the visit. Following the event, agreements were signed covering labor migration, diplomatic cooperation, and taxation.

The sides also noted the expansion of cultural and educational exchanges, stressing their importance as a factor strengthening bilateral ties.

During the negotiations, emphasis was placed on the need for a systematic high-level dialogue, increasing mutual trade, and advancing joint investment projects in priority areas.

Security cooperation was also discussed. The parties highlighted the importance of information exchange and coordination in combating terrorism, human trafficking, illicit drug trafficking, and cybercrime.

The meeting concluded with an exchange of views on current regional and international issues.