Mirziyoyev meets with European leaders

At the headquarters of the European Council — the ’’Europa’’ building in Brussels — President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, the presidential press service reported.

It was noted that the meeting focused on further expanding the multifaceted Uzbekistan–EU partnership within the framework of the agreements reached following the first ’’Central Asia–European Union’’ summit held in Samarkand in April this year.

The leaders highly appreciated the signing of the historic Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement earlier today. It was emphasized that this comprehensive document not only broadens the legal foundations of Uzbekistan-EU–EU relations but also defines a new agenda for cooperation.

The agreement is expected to give strong momentum to relations with EU member states, particularly in trade, investment, transport, energy, climate, high technology, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

The parties also welcomed the completion of bilateral negotiations between Uzbekistan and the EU regarding Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization.

It was noted with satisfaction that active and productive dialogue and exchanges are taking place at all levels. On the eve of the visit, the Uzbek delegation took part in the second EU ’’Global Gateway’’ forum, while yesterday, the Cooperation Council and the Subcommittee on Economy, Trade, and Investment held successful meetings.

Yesterday, a major joint business forum was held, and today, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with leaders of Europe’s leading companies and financial institutions. As a result of these meetings, agreements were reached to implement new projects worth more than €10 billion in the fields of energy, chemistry, critical minerals, logistics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. This marks a significant addition to the current portfolio of projects involving European companies, which already exceeds €40 billion in total value.

To maintain the strong momentum of partnership, the sides emphasized the need to further strengthen institutional mechanisms of cooperation and to implement new promising projects in investment, critical minerals, energy, transport, science, and education. The importance of simplifying visa procedures to promote stronger business and humanitarian ties was also highlighted.

The leaders exchanged views on pressing issues on the international agenda and regional cooperation. Following the meeting, a Joint Statement was adopted.