Uzbekistan Discusses Visa Facilitation With South Africa, Ethiopia

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan's Ambassador Ashraf Khodjayev held separate meetings with Ethiopian State Minister for Foreign Affairs Hadera Abera and Sandiwe Fadana, a representative of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Dunyo News Agency reported.

The main focus of the talks was the simplification of visa procedures for Uzbek citizens, as well as prospects for introducing a visa-free regime. The parties paid particular attention to creating more favourable conditions for reciprocal travel by citizens.

Following the meetings, the sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the tourism, trade and economic, and cultural and humanitarian fields through the further simplification of visa formalities.

According to the report, diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and South Africa were established in 1992, while diplomatic relations with Ethiopia were established in 1996. Uzbek citizens are currently eligible to enter Ethiopia with an electronic visa.

Ashraf Khodjayev was appointed as Uzbekistan's first ambassador to Ethiopia in June 2026. He also concurrently serves as Uzbekistan's ambassador to Qatar and South Africa.