Italy and Uzbekistan to host joint investment forum in Samarkand

In a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, met with Lombardy Governor Attilio Fontana today in Milan, Italy. The meeting marked an opportunity for both leaders to discuss practical aspects of mutually beneficial cooperation in the trade and economic sphere.

Congratulating Attilio Fontana on his re-election as governor, President Mirziyoyev expressed his wishes for success in his new term. Highlighting the growing economic relationship between the regions, it was revealed that trade volume between Uzbekistan and Lombardy had increased by an impressive 83% last year. Furthermore, the recent restoration of flights between Milan and Tashkent and the establishment of strong partnerships with leading Lombardian companies have contributed to this upward trend.

President Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of expanding the portfolio of joint trade and investment projects while harnessing Italy's advanced technology and knowledge to further develop Uzbekistan's economic sectors. To this end, both leaders emphasized the need to swiftly prepare a comprehensive cooperation program with Lombardy and announced plans to hold a joint investment forum in Samarkand.

The development of industrial cooperation, facilitation of business initiatives, implementation of public-private partnership projects in medicine, innovation, and the expansion of cultural and humanitarian relations were identified as key areas of focus. The proposal to hold Culture Days further demonstrates the commitment to strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.

Expressing gratitude for President Mirziyoyev's support of Lombardian business projects and initiatives in Uzbekistan, Governor Fontana pledged his readiness to foster large-scale and mutually beneficial partnerships with Uzbekistan's regions.

In closing, President Mirziyoyev extended his best wishes to Governor Fontana as he prepares for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Lombardy.

Lombardy, located in the northern part of Italy, stands as one of the largest and most economically developed regions in the country in terms of population and area. With a contribution of 22 percent to Italy's GDP, it holds the fifth position in the European Union.

Yesterday, on June 8, President Mirziyoyev also met and held talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome, further solidifying the growing partnership between Uzbekistan and Italy.

Joint investment forum in Samarkand holds great promise for fostering increased trade and economic cooperation between Italy and Uzbekistan, paving the way for a prosperous future for both nations.