The 14th round of political consultations between the foreign ministries of Uzbekistan and France took place in Paris, marking another milestone in the diplomatic relations between the two nations, the National Information Agency of Uzbekistan reported. The meeting, held at the heart of French diplomacy, saw fruitful discussions on various aspects of bilateral cooperation and plans for the future.
The Uzbekistan delegation, led by Oybek Shakhavdinov, the head of the Department for Cooperation with European Countries and EU Institutions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, engaged in talks with their French counterparts, headed by Brice Roquefeuil, the Continental Europe Director of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
The discussions revolved around the practical implementation of agreements reached at the highest levels of government. Key topics included intensifying political dialogue, strengthening inter-parliamentary relations, expanding the legal framework for interaction, and planning upcoming contacts at various levels.
A significant highlight was the expression of gratitude by the French side for the successful visit of President Emmanuel Macron to Uzbekistan on November 1-2, which was lauded as unprecedented in the history of bilateral relations.
Economic diplomacy took center stage as both parties explored ways to attract French investment and technology for projects in Uzbekistan, while also increasing the export of Uzbekistani goods to France. Proposals to enhance cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian spheres, with a focus on education, cultural heritage, and healthcare, were also discussed.
Mutual interest in deepening interaction within international organizations was reiterated, and views were exchanged on current regional and global issues. Looking ahead, an agreement was reached to hold the 15th round of political consultations in 2024 in Tashkent, underscoring the commitment of both nations to ongoing dialogue and cooperation.
France and Uzbekistan: A Diplomatic Journey
Diplomatic relations between France and Uzbekistan were established on March 1, 1992, with a foundation laid during President Karimov’s visit to France in 1993. The aftermath of the events of September 11, 2001, saw French involvement in Afghanistan, contributing to the strengthening of political dialogue with Tashkent. Relations faced challenges during the European sanctions (2005-2009) over the Andijan protests but were subsequently revived through sustained political dialogue and collaborative projects.
Recent discussions in Samarkand further solidified the relationship, with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President Emmanuel Macron endorsing a statement. Eight bilateral agreements spanning finance, education, culture, and other areas of mutual cooperation were signed, reflecting the commitment to multifaceted collaboration between the two nations.
These agreements include the establishment and operation of the Samarkand French Alliance, financial support for drinking water supply infrastructure in Uzbekistan, modifications to the intergovernmental agreement on the French Development Agency and PROPARKO, cooperation in diplomatic personnel training, education at various levels, and collaboration in the realm of cultural heritage, emphasizing the diverse and comprehensive nature of the bilateral relationship.
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