Speech by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan at a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council

Dear heads of delegations!

First of all, I want to join in the words of gratitude addressed to the President of the Russian Federation, dear Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin for the hospitality and excellent organization of our meeting today.

I would especially note the fruitful chairmanship of the Belarusian side, President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Grigoryevich Lukashenko, in the Eurasian Economic Union, during which multilateral practical interaction received a new dynamic.

Against the background of growing fragmentation of global markets, increasing complexity of supply chains and shifting priorities in the distribution of investment resources, deepening pragmatic and mutually beneficial cooperation with the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union - our strategic and natural partners is of fundamental importance for us.

Dear meeting participants!

Over the past four years of interaction in the status of an observer state, foreign trade turnover Uzbekistan's relations with the EAEU countries have almost doubled.

It is especially important that in the structure of economic relations the share of products with high added value is growing, and the expansion of cooperation projects is demonstrating stable dynamics.

This reflects the real interest of our partners in strengthening production chains.

Uzbekistan is actively participating in key Eurasian formats.

A three-year Plan is being implemented with the Eurasian Economic Commission, which includes about 40 specific activities in the fields of trade, industry, finance, agriculture and transport.

Work continues in the format of a joint Working Group - we plan to hold its fifth meeting next year in Tashkent.

We also participate in EAEU industry programs for the development of e-commerce, digitalization of cargo transportation and the fight against climate change.

We welcome the decision on the start of negotiations on the conclusion of an agreement on the exchange of information on goods and vehicles moved across the customs borders of Uzbekistan and the EAEU.

We are confident that cross-border data exchange will increase the efficiency of customs control, reduce delays and will contribute to the integration of our transport systems into the Eurasian corridors.

Uzbekistan’s accession to the Eurasian Bank development became an important stage in strengthening cooperation. Together with the Bank, a portfolio of promising projects in the field of infrastructure, energy, metallurgy, chemical and other industries has been formed.

Dear colleagues!

I would like to briefly outline our priorities for expanding interaction with the EAEU.

First. The key task remains the gradual elimination of trade barriers.

We consider it necessary to intensify coordination between the institutions of the CIS and the EAEU to bring closer approaches to technical regulation, sanitary and phytosanitary standards.

It is advisable to develop a “road map” to eliminate redundant procedures and unify requirements.

To quickly resolve issues related to differences in technical regulation, certification and customs administration, we propose to create a joint Uzbekistan - EAEU Coordination Group on tariff and non-tariff barriers.

Second. We pay special attention to the development of industrial cooperation.

It is necessary to jointly formulate a list of projects in mechanical engineering, energy, agriculture, chemical and other industries.

In connection with Uzbekistan’s accession to the EDB, it is advisable to jointly determine the strategic directions of the partnership and develop a “road map” covering priority infrastructure and “green” projects, as well as support for small and medium-sized businesses.

We are convinced that the Bank can become not only a source of financing, but also a catalyst for attracting investments in integration projects.

Third. We intend to strengthen interaction in the field of digital technologies.

We propose to prepare a roadmap with the EEC for connecting digital platforms, including e-commerce and digital labeling.

We also see the digitalization of customs administration and the transition to a “seamless” model of freight transportation as a priority.

Fourth. We are interested in joining the EAEU technology platforms, covering areas such as biomedicine, new materials, agricultural technologies, energy and robotics.

Fifth. We are also ready to join in the formation of an integrated information resource in the field of tourism.

This approach will ensure the consistency of the tourism products of our countries.

Dear friends!

Uzbekistan is committed to further expanding practical interaction with the EAEU.

I take this opportunity to wish success to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, respected Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev, in connection with the transfer of the chairmanship of the Association to Kazakhstan.

Once again, I cordially congratulate all of you and our fraternal peoples on the upcoming New Year, I wish you peace, prosperity and prosperity.

Thank you for your attention.