As part of his official visit to Belgium, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a roundtable meeting with heads of leading European companies and banks.
The meeting was attended by the EU Commissioner for enlargement Marta Kos, the 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 especially emphasized that the attendance of leading European companies in the event reflects the high level of mutual trust and aspirations to strengthening cooperation.
It was noted that the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement will open a new chapter in the relations between Uzbekistan and the EU.
Over the past seven years, trade turnover has increased twofold, while the number of joint ventures with European capital has exceeded one thousand. These indicators are clear evidence of growing investor confidence in Uzbekistan’s economic reforms.
The support of European partners in modernizing Uzbekistan’s economy, implementing deep structural reforms, introducing advanced technologies, corporate governance standards, and developing innovative industries, was particularly noted.
The President also underlined the importance of human capital development. Access to higher education for young people has expanded significantly – new universities have been established, branches of foreign institutions have opened, joint educational programs with European partners are being implemented.
During the meeting, the Head of State outlined four key areas for further cooperation.
Uzbekistan is interested in jointly developing projects to produce high value-added finished goods through the processing of strategic raw materials and minerals within the country.
Another promising area of cooperation is the “green” economy and chemical industry. The country is actively developing renewable energy and modernizing its power system. European partners were invited to participate in projects in green energy generation, energy storage, and environmentally friendly chemical production.
Infrastructure and logistics development were also identified as priorities. Uzbekistan is modernizing its transport network, including highways, railways, and airports. The country is ready to engage in joint projects on transit corridors and the creation of modern logistics hubs connecting Europe and Asia.
Special attention was paid to the digital economy and IT. Uzbekistan is developing IT parks and startup incubators, and stands ready to cooperate with European companies in the areas of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
In turn, the participants of the roundtable highly appreciated the transparent and stable investment environment created in our country and confirmed their readiness to take part in the implementation of new joint projects and initiatives in the country.