The International Institute of Central Asia (IICA) recently hosted a meeting with Yousef Saleh Algahrah Al-Otaibi, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Uzbekistan, IICA reported. The meeting aimed to explore avenues for enhanced collaboration between Central Asia and the Gulf region.
The dialogue commenced with both parties acknowledging the rich historical ties that have bound the peoples of Central Asia and the Gulf region for centuries. Emphasizing shared values, traditions, and religious affiliations, the participants underscored the importance of leveraging these connections for mutual benefit.
Of particular note was the fruitful outcome of the landmark summit between the Heads of State of Central Asia and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. This summit, held previously, catalyzed cooperation across various sectors including trade, transportation, agriculture, industrial collaboration, renewable energy, digital economy, and innovation.
Attention was drawn to the implementation of several initiatives proposed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan during the first meeting of the C5+ countries and the Gulf States in Jeddah. These initiatives encompassed the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Regional Interconnectivity and Cooperation, the establishment of an Investors' Council, and the creation of a visa-free tourist zone named "Gulf-Central Asia." Furthermore, anticipation was expressed for the upcoming Second Summit of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the Gulf Region scheduled to take place in Samarkand in 2025.
Highlighting bilateral achievements, the meeting acknowledged significant strides in Uzbekistan-Saudi Arabia relations, particularly in the tourism sector. In 2023, the number of tourists from Uzbekistan to Saudi Arabia reached 500,000.
The discussion also addressed visa regulations, with a focus on enhancing accessibility for tourists. The recent introduction of electronic visas for Uzbek tourists visiting Saudi Arabia was hailed as a significant step forward. These multiple-entry visas, valid for a year with a stay duration of up to 90 days, are expected to facilitate increased travel between the two nations.
Both parties emphasized the strategic importance of deepening cooperation, with plans to expand the current 28 weekly mutual flights to 50 in the near future. Additionally, there was mutual agreement on the necessity of fostering partnerships between expert-analytical communities in Central Asia and Saudi Arabia, with a commitment to collaboration between IICA and leading analytical centers in the Kingdom.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)