Uzbekistan, Serbia Expand Cooperation in Horticulture

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Serbia are expanding cooperation in horticulture, with representatives of Uzbekistan's Ministry of Agriculture and Serbian company Evro Kalem Trade Ltd discussing prospects for developing modern nurseries and intensive orchards in the country.

The talks focused on establishing a modern nursery, introducing advanced agricultural technologies and adapting export-oriented fruit varieties to Uzbekistan's agro-climatic conditions, Uzbekistan's Ministry of Agriculture said.

One area under consideration is the establishment of a nursery in Uzbekistan for producing planting material. The project is expected to introduce modern production technologies and facilitate the cultivation and propagation of high-yielding fruit varieties that are in demand on the market.

Particular attention was given to apple varieties, including Pink Lady and other promising varieties. The parties proposed studying their adaptability to different agro-climatic conditions in Uzbekistan. To this end, trials are planned at experimental sites, after which the most promising varieties could be introduced more widely into production.

Another potential component of the project is the establishment of a modern nursery and intensive orchards in the Jizzakh region. Participants discussed the effective use of the region's land and water resources, agro-climatic conditions and existing infrastructure.

Under the proposed project, the region would produce high-quality certified planting material and establish intensive orchards. This would also create conditions for producing fruit seedlings in accordance with quality and certification requirements.

The cooperation also envisages the transfer of Serbian expertise to Uzbek specialists. In particular, the parties intend to consider the introduction of modern grafting methods, the production of high-quality rootstocks and certified seedlings, as well as professional training for local specialists.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue work on the project concept. The next stage will involve identifying suitable land plots for implementation in the Jizzakh region and further developing a modern base for growing fruit seedlings in Uzbekistan.

The cooperation is expected to support the development of intensive horticulture, increase the production of high-quality and certified planting material, and expand opportunities to market agricultural products domestically and internationally.