Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan convened their fourth Working Group meeting to discuss the joint management of transboundary water bodies, the official information source of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan reported. The virtual meeting, led by Deputy Prime Ministers Serik Zhumangarin of Kazakhstan and Jamshid Khodjaev of Uzbekistan, showcased the commitment of both nations to enhance cooperation and address shared challenges.
The discussions centered around the progress of implementing cooperation projects and strategic initiatives outlined during the visit of Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan in December 2022. A key focus was placed on the Roadmap for the implementation of investment agreements and trade contracts, with plans underway for 20 investment projects and 5 trade contracts.
Particular attention was given to the project aimed at establishing the International Center for Industrial Cooperation “Central Asia.” The completion of organizational and administrative documents culminated in the signing of an Agreement on regulating the center's activities in Tashkent on November 9, 2023. The upcoming phase involves the development of a feasibility study for the project.
Addressing trade barriers, the Kazakh side stressed the importance of expediting the harmonization of excise tax rates during imports into Uzbekistan and the production of specific products. To tackle this, both parties agreed to establish a dedicated working group to formulate concrete proposals.
To facilitate the seamless operation of the free trade regime, representatives from both nations committed to exploring the possibility of adopting a unified procedure for determining the origin of goods. This initiative aims to simplify and streamline trade processes.
The meeting also emphasized the joint effort to create new transport corridors, fostering favorable conditions for bilateral and transit transport. This collaborative approach aligns with the broader regional vision for enhanced connectivity.
In a notable conclusion to the Working Group meeting, attention turned to the preparation of a draft Intergovernmental Agreement on the joint management and utilization of transboundary water bodies. Supervising ministers from both countries are slated to engage in negotiations on December 19, with the aim of reaching mutually acceptable solutions on unresolved aspects.
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