Last October, an important event took place in Tashkent. This was a meeting between the President of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev and the Chairman of the European Council Sh. Michel. The meeting took place in a very warm and friendly atmosphere. Mirziyoyev and Michel agreed on the manifestation of the rapid rapprochement between Uzbekistan and the European Union, which has been observed in recent years. An agreement was reached to join forces to further expand cooperation between Uzbekistan and the EU. The Chairman of the European Council and President of Uzbekistan Mirziyoyev discussed the Enhanced Partnership Agreement. Both politicians hope that it will soon be signed and undergo the ratification procedure.
An agreement was reached between the parties on the need for strict compliance with the UN Charter. The importance of compliance with international legal norms, which should be the main regulatory mechanism in bilateral relations, was also emphasized. The need to adhere to the principles according to which absolute equality and mutual respect for the interests of each party will be observed between the parties was also emphasized.
The representative of the European Union warmly supported the reform course taken by President Mirziyoyev. Michel said that the reforms undertaken must be permanent and sustainable. Both sides highly appreciated the results already achieved in the field of respect for human rights and democratic principles in Uzbekistan. Cooperation between the state and the EU in this direction should constantly deepen – both sides are confident of this.
The President of the European Union was satisfied with the emerging changes in the lifestyle of citizens of Uzbekistan. In particular, he drew attention to the fact that significant steps have been taken towards achieving gender equality in society, and the rights of women and youth have expanded. The EU, for its part, is ready to facilitate in all possible ways the further implementation of projects affecting these areas.
Another important topic of the meeting was attracting investments and new technologies from European companies to Uzbekistan. In recent years, economic and trade cooperation between Uzbekistan and the EU has been rapidly strengthening. This positive trend was noted by both politicians. The beneficiary status that was granted to Uzbekistan two years ago contributed greatly to this. Uzbek goods gained access to European markets.
It was also noted that to further expand trade cooperation it is necessary to create sustainable transport corridors. To this end, Uzbekistan’s port facilities are expanding, the ferry fleet is increasing, and the rolling stock of railway transport is being built up. Customs procedures are being simplified through the introduction of the latest digital solutions that reduce the time it takes to clear goods when crossing borders. These projects are being implemented in full compliance with the goals of the EU Global Gateway.
