Over the past five years, Uzbekistan’s foreign trade turnover with member countries of the Organization of Turkic States increased by 25%, reaching $10bn in 2023. This growth was highlighted during the 13th Meeting of Ministers of Economy and Trade and the 15th Economic Cooperation Working Group of the Organization of Turkic States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on October 18.
Laziz Kudratov, Uzbekistan's Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade, attended the high-level meetings, which brought together officials from across the Turkic world to strengthen economic ties and foster greater regional cooperation.
The event saw participation from Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States; Daniyar Amangeldiev, Kyrgyzstan's Minister of Economy and Commerce; Ömer Bolat, Türkiye's Minister of Trade; Péter Sztáray, Hungary’s State Secretary for Security Policy; Rovnag Abdullayev, Azerbaijan's Deputy Minister of Economy; and Nurlan Baibazarov, Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy.
In his address, Kudratov emphasized the increasing influence of the Organization of Turkic States in global affairs, noting its strong relationships with international organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
The discussions focused on key achievements in the region, particularly in trade, investment, transportation, and tourism. A strong emphasis was placed on regional cooperation in "green" energy and the development of transportation links.
Additionally, more than 500 new enterprises with investments from Turkic States have been established in Uzbekistan this year alone, bringing the total to 4,000 enterprises. Investment inflows from member states have surpassed $5 billion over the last three years.
A number of proposals were put forward to enhance multilateral economic collaboration, including digitizing trade and transport processes, creating "green" corridors, improving customs procedures, and encouraging mutual investments. The members also discussed expanding global logistics networks, establishing a unified transit system, and creating a Council of Railway Administrations based in Uzbekistan. Additionally, they considered the "Turkic Movement to 'Green' Energy" Concept, aimed at boosting clean energy production across member states.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Minister Kudratov engaged in bilateral discussions with his counterparts to explore opportunities for strengthening cooperation. Specific initiatives were outlined to ensure continued collaboration between Uzbekistan and other Turkic States.
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