Mirziyoyev receives credentials from foreign ambassadors

Today, March 6, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received credentials from several newly appointed ambassadors, including representatives from the Arab Republic of Egypt, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Georgia, and Turkey. This was reported by the presidential press service.

The head of state sincerely congratulated the diplomatic mission heads on the start of their new assignments in New Uzbekistan.

It was noted that amid escalating global conflicts, mutual support between friendly nations has become more crucial than ever. Uzbekistan remains committed to fostering mutual respect and friendship through its open and pragmatic foreign policy, strengthening practical partnerships with countries, international organizations, and global financial institutions across all regions.

Mirziyoyev highlighted that thanks to shared political will, Central Asia is becoming a region of good neighborliness, trust, and integration. This year, Uzbekistan chairs the Consultative Meetings of Central Asian Heads of State and is preparing to host a historic summit in Tashkent.

Interest in the region is increasing, with the expansion of the "Central Asia Plus" dialogue format. Uzbekistan will host the first "Central Asia-EU" summit in April and the second "Central Asia-Arab Countries" meeting in May. Over the past years, 11 resolutions initiated by Uzbekistan have been adopted within the United Nations.

Additionally, Uzbekistan's efforts to join the UN Human Rights Council in 2027 are gaining momentum. The country will host the 43rd session of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee and celebrate the 150th anniversary of its national university this year.

In 2023, foreign investments in Uzbekistan reached $35 billion, with $27 billion in direct investments. Preparations for the Tashkent Investment Forum are underway in a new innovative format.

"Our primary goal is to protect the interests of every citizen, increase incomes, and create an attractive investment and business environment. We have the potential, opportunities, and, most importantly, the political will to realize the Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy," Mirziyoyev stated.

Addressing the Ambassador of Egypt, the President described Egypt as a reliable partner in the Middle East. Political consultations are held regularly, with three major business forums and meetings of the intergovernmental commission organized last year. Joint projects are expanding in energy, agriculture, textiles, and tourism. Mirziyoyev also praised Egypt's initiative for Gaza's recovery plan, presented at the Arab League.

Italy was recognized as an important strategic partner with great economic and political potential. Successful projects are being implemented in green energy, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. The President welcomed the growing cooperation in higher education and cultural exchanges, including the opening of Tashkent branches of Italian universities.

With Kyrgyzstan, a close neighbor and strategic partner, trade turnover has quadrupled in recent years, reaching $300 million. Several joint projects have been launched, including textile factories and medical centers. The construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, which began in December 2023, marks a significant milestone. A trilateral summit involving Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan is set to take place in Khojand this month.

Uzbek-Belarusian cooperation has reached a new level following Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's official visit in 2023. Trade turnover is consistently growing, with 240 joint ventures currently operating. Upcoming events include political consultations, intergovernmental commission meetings, and business forums.

Georgia was praised as a reliable partner in the South Caucasus. Trade turnover increased by 50% last year, and cooperation is expanding in banking, logistics, and tourism. Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's recent visit to Uzbekistan is expected to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Turkey was highlighted as a key strategic partner, with trade turnover reaching $3 billion and 2,000 joint ventures established. Major projects are underway with Turkish companies, and the International University of Turkic Countries is being set up in Tashkent. Plans are in place to hold a High-level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting in Uzbekistan this year.

At the end of the ceremony, Mirziyoyev wished the ambassadors success in their honorable missions and encouraged them to actively cooperate with local regions and private businesses. The diplomats expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and pledged to use their expertise to promote multifaceted cooperation.