Uzbekistan – a reliable partner of European Union

TASHKENT, Nov 04 (UzA/APP): The official visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Belgium has become a clear confirmation of the deepening cooperation between Uzbekistan and Europe.
Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on International Relations, Foreign Economic Ties, Foreign Investments, and Tourism Odiljon Mamatkarimov shared his views on the visit:
“The open and pragmatic foreign policy of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and diplomacy based on the principle “Uzbekistan is a reliable partner and responsible participant”, are strengthening the authority and position of our country on the international stage.
This increases international and regional organizations’ attention and interest in the country.
In recent years, diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union have reached a new stage of development.
It should be noted that the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Uzbekistan and the European Union, which entered into force in 1999, was an important historical document for its time. However, it was instead a framework agreement, meaning that while it defined general areas of cooperation, it did not contain precise practical mechanisms. Therefore, in the years that followed, the scale and effectiveness of collaboration remained limited.
The new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the European Union is a document that will elevate bilateral relations to a qualitatively new level. It covers not only political dialogue, but also important areas such as security, the fight against corruption and terrorism, migration and border control, and personal data protection.
Another important aspect of this agreement is that it provides comprehensive, practical mechanisms for trade and investment. Barriers in customs and technical regulation will be reduced, trade processes will be simplified, and broader access to the European market will be opened for Uzbek products. This, in turn, will stimulate domestic production, increase export potential, and enhance the competitiveness of our national economy. At the same time, the agreement will help establish an open and reliable legal environment for European investors in our country.
Furthermore, mechanisms to protect investments and ensure the free movement of capital between Uzbekistan and the EU will be expanded. Under the EU’s multi-year financial programs, projects aimed at supporting the green economy, digital transformation, and inclusive development are being implemented in Uzbekistan. Another significant achievement is the extension of duty-free access for Uzbek products to the European market under the GSP+ system until 2027.
In conclusion, it should be emphasized that the new agreement is a practical outcome of the rational foreign policy pursued under the leadership of our country’s President. It will strengthen Uzbekistan’s international influence and improve the well-being of its citizens”.