The President of Uzbekistan called on European businesses to expand mutually beneficial cooperation

As part of his official visit to Belgium, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a roundtable discussion with the heads of leading European companies and banks, the press service of the head of our state reports.

The meeting was attended by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and top management from companies and corporations such as “Vandewiele”, “Linde”, “Rhenus Logistics”, “Ahlers Logistics”, “Lasselsberger Group”, “Pietro Fiorentini”, “NextChem”, “Meridiam”, “SUEZ”, “FMO”, “European Investment Bank”, “Commerzbank”, “KfW”, “Textima”, “Chimcomplex”, “Metso” and others.

The head of state emphasized that the participation of leading European companies in the event reflects the high level of mutual trust and a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation.

It was emphasized that the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement will open a new chapter in relations between Uzbekistan and the EU.

Over the past seven years, trade turnover has doubled, and the number of joint ventures with European capital has exceeded 1,000. These figures demonstrate growing investor confidence in economic reforms in Uzbekistan.

The support of European partners in modernizing Uzbekistan’s economy and implementing deep economic reforms, introducing advanced technologies, corporate governance standards, and developing innovative production was particularly noted.

The President paid special attention to the development of human capital. Young people’s access to higher education has been significantly expanded: new universities have been established, branches of foreign universities have been opened, and joint educational programs are being implemented with European partners.

During the meeting, the head of state outlined four key areas for further deepening cooperation.

Uzbekistan is interested in jointly implementing projects to produce finished goods with high added value through the development and advanced processing of strategic raw materials and minerals within the country.

The green economy and chemical industry are also promising areas for cooperation. The country is actively implementing renewable energy and modernizing its energy system. European partners have been invited to participate in green generation, energy storage, and green chemistry projects.

Infrastructure and logistics development are also identified as a priority. Uzbekistan is modernizing its transport network, including highways, railways, and airports. The country is prepared for joint projects to develop transit routes and create modern logistics centers linking Europe and Asia.

Special attention is paid to the digital economy and information technology. Uzbekistan is developing IT parks and startup incubators and is ready to collaborate with European companies in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

In turn, the roundtable participants praised the transparent and stable investment environment created in our country and confirmed their readiness to participate in new joint projects and initiatives in our country.