Uzbekistan and the Czech Republic have set a goal to raise bilateral trade turnover to $1bn as both sides agreed to deepen cooperation across key economic and strategic sectors during high-level talks in Tashkent.
Negotiations between the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis were held at the Kuksaroy residence in a narrow format and with the participation of delegations from both countries.
The meeting focused on expanding practical cooperation between Uzbekistan and Czech Republic, with both sides noting that relations are entering a qualitatively new stage of development.
Source: Presidential Press Service
President Mirziyoyev underlined that the visit marks an important milestone in Uzbek–Czech relations, highlighting the rapid development of cooperation in recent years. He noted strengthened contacts at the level of governments and ministries, more active business and humanitarian exchanges, and effective parliamentary cooperation through established “friendship groups.”
Trade relations have shown steady growth, with bilateral turnover nearly doubling in recent years. At present, 37 joint ventures with Czech capital are operating in Uzbekistan, while new investment projects are being prepared.
A key focus of the talks was increasing trade volumes and diversifying export-import structures. To support this goal, Uzbekistan’s first certification branch in the Czech Republic is being launched. Additionally, a modern laboratory for Euro-6 vehicle certification and quantum benchmarking is being developed jointly with Czech partners.
Source: Presidential Press Service
Both sides also agreed to advance a Technological Cooperation Program involving companies from the Czech Republic. The program will cover mechanical engineering, green energy, geology and critical raw materials, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other priority sectors.
Opportunities in infrastructure development, smart city projects, engineering, and digital transformation were also discussed. The parties supported initiatives presented at the Uzbekistan–Czech Republic business forum held earlier.
Financial institutions, including the Export Credit Insurance Agency and the Czech Export Bank, expressed readiness to support the implementation of joint projects in Uzbekistan.
Source: Presidential Press Service
To strengthen economic coordination, the establishment of a Business Council was proposed, along with holding the next Intergovernmental Commission meeting in Tashkent in August.
In the humanitarian sphere, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding educational cooperation, including joint degree programs. Plans were also discussed to increase cultural exchanges, including film days, exhibitions, and concerts, as well as boosting tourism flows between the two countries.
The resumption of direct flights between Tashkent and Prague was highlighted as an important step to enhance connectivity. The sides also exchanged views on regulated labor migration and discussed cooperation on international issues.
Additionally, both sides agreed to develop a joint roadmap to ensure the timely implementation of all agreements reached.