Uzbek–Czech relations enter a new stage of development

Negotiations were held between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Andrej Babiš, in a narrow format and with the participation of the two countries’ delegations at the Kuksaroy Residence.

The sides discussed the current state and prospects for further development of practical cooperation between Uzbekistan and the Czech Republic.

At the beginning of the meeting, the President emphasized that the current visit would be a breakthrough and would open a qualitatively new stage in the history of multifaceted Uzbek–Czech relations.

The dynamic development of cooperation across all areas was noted with satisfaction. Close contacts have been established at the level of governments, ministries, and agencies, while business and humanitarian exchanges have intensified.

Friendship groups have been established in the parliaments, and the Intergovernmental Commission is operating effectively.

Bilateral trade turnover has nearly doubled in recent years.

There are currently 37 joint ventures with Czech capital successfully operating in Uzbekistan, and cooperation is expanding across a broad range of new areas.

Particular attention was paid to increasing mutual trade. A target was set to raise trade turnover to $1 billion, including by expanding the range of traded goods.

To stimulate trade, the first Uzbek certification branch is being established in the Czech Republic. In cooperation with Czech partners, a modern laboratory for the certification of Euro-6 standard vehicles and quantum measurement standards is also under construction.

An agreement was reached to prepare a Technological Cooperation Program with leading Czech companies, including the implementation of projects in mechanical engineering, green energy, geology and critical raw materials, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors.

Prospects for cooperation in infrastructure development, the creation of smart cities, engineering, and digitalization were also noted.

In this context, the project initiatives presented at the Uzbek–Czech Business Forum held the previous day were supported.

The sides welcomed the intentions of the Export Credit Insurance Agency and the Export Bank of the Czech Republic to support project implementation in Uzbekistan.

To advance the economic agenda, it was proposed to establish a Business Council and to hold the next meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission in Tashkent this August.

In the cultural and humanitarian sphere, both sides confirmed their interest in expanding educational and academic exchanges, including through dual degree programs.

The importance of regularly holding cultural and film days, exhibitions, and concerts, as well as increasing tourist flows, was emphasized.

To this end, the resumption of direct flights between the capitals of the two countries will be explored.

The prospects for cooperation in the field of organized labor migration were also discussed separately.

The sides also exchanged views on issues on the international agenda.

In conclusion, an agreement was reached to prepare a joint roadmap for the timely implementation of the decisions adopted.