In a bid to fortify the already robust ties between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People's Republic of China, a delegation from Uzbekistan visited the city of Kashgar on February 29 and March 1, the government portal of Uzbekistan reported.
The focal point of the visit was a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov of Uzbekistan and Ma Xingrui, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the secretary of the Party Committee of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.
Both sides reaffirmed the strength of the enduring partnership between Uzbekistan and China, emphasizing the personal rapport between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and President Xi Jinping of China as a cornerstone of this relationship. The recent high-level meeting in Beijing in January marked the dawn of a new era in bilateral relations, elevating cooperation to the status of a comprehensive strategic partnership.
The significance of the economic aspect of this partnership was underscored during the visit. Trade between Uzbekistan and China surged to nearly $14bn in 2023, setting a record high. However, both parties expressed their confidence in the untapped potential to push this figure even higher, aiming for a target of $20bn in the near future.
A pivotal role in fostering trade and economic exchanges between the two nations is played by the Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region, often dubbed as a crucial connecting "gate". Discussions revolved around ensuring the implementation of agreements made at the highest levels, with a particular focus on the import of modern technology and equipment, as well as the export of various goods including textiles, copper, mineral fertilizers, and agricultural products.
Moreover, both sides explored avenues for collaboration in transport logistics, energy, and cultural-humanitarian endeavors, aiming to activate joint projects for mutual benefit.
The visit culminated in the announcement of investment agreements totaling over $52bn, signifying the commitment of both Uzbekistan and China to deepen their economic cooperation and pave the way for further advancements in their bilateral relations.
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