Leaders of Uzbekistan and the EU welcome the elevation of bilateral relations to a new strategic level

At the headquarters of the European Council “Europa” in Brussels, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with the President of the European Council António Costa and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

The discussions focused on expanding the multifaceted cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Union in the context of implementing the agreements reached at the first Central Asia – EU Summit held in Samarkand in April of this year.

The leaders highly praised the signing of the historic Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the European Union, which took place earlier today. It was emphasized that this comprehensive document not only broadens the legal foundation of relations but also establishes a new agenda for cooperation between Uzbekistan and the EU.

The Agreement will also give strong impetus to cooperation with EU member states, particularly in trade, investment, transport, energy, climate, high technology, and cultural and humanitarian exchange.

The parties welcomed the completion of bilateral negotiations with the European Union on Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The parties expressed deep satisfaction with the active and productive exchanges taking place at all levels. On the eve of the visit, the Uzbekistan delegation participated in the second EU Global Gateway Forum, while in recent days, meetings of the Cooperation Council and the Subcommittee on Economy, Trade, and Investment were successfully held.

Yesterday, a major joint business forum was held, followed today by a meeting with the heads of leading European companies and financial institutions. As a result of these discussions, agreements were reached to implement new projects totaling over €10 billion across energy, chemistry, critical minerals, logistics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. This represents a substantial addition to the current portfolio of projects with European companies, which already exceeds €40 billion.

To maintain the strong momentum of the partnership, the parties emphasized the need to strengthen institutional mechanisms of cooperation and to implement new, forward-looking projects in investment, critical minerals, energy, transport, science, and education. The importance of simplifying visa procedures was also noted as a means of reinforcing business and humanitarian ties.

The leaders also exchanged views on pressing international issues and regional cooperation.

A Joint Statement was adopted following the meeting.

UzA