Presidents of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan speak by phone

On December 2, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a telephone conversation with President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani.

The two sides discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral relations, pressing issues in the regional agenda.

On behalf of the multiethnic people of Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani expressed deep gratitude to the leader of Uzbekistan for comprehensive support for the inter-Afghan peace process and practical assistance in the socio-economic development of the country, including that during the fight against coronavirus.

The heads of state noted with particular satisfaction the growing dynamics of mutually advantageous cooperation between the two nations.

The pandemic and its impact notwithstanding, trade turnover has increased significantly, along with intensification of business exchanges. Termez International Trade Center has been established to provide entrepreneurs from both sides of the border with unique opportunities.

The two sides are working together to refine the legal framework of cooperation, enhance the network of trading houses and form a package of new projects to secure a twofold growth in turnover.

The two countries have succeeded in spearheading a number of important joint events in the humanitarian dimension. In particular, in October this year, Uzbek language holiday was organized for the first time in Afghanistan at the state level. In addition, training of Afghan specialists continues at the Educational Center in Termez, and crucial healthcare programs are executed.

The Presidents appreciated the major results of the International Conference on Afghanistan that took place last week in Geneva.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Ashraf Ghani underscored the importance of building up the regional connectivity and promoting priority projects designed to integrate Afghanistan into international trade and economic bonds.

The parties agreed on the need for a joint appeal to the leading nations and international financial institutions to support the practical implementation of a project for the construction of trans-Afghan railway corridor. The Presidents discussed speeding up the project for the construction of a power line in Surkhan – Puli Khumri section.

The heads of state reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening friendship, good-neighborliness and full-scale partnership between the two countries.

The conversation took place in a traditionally constructive and friendly atmosphere.

UzA