“In recent years, Uzbekistan and Europe have come closer than ever before,” said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, in a video message to participants at the “European Economic Days” business forum in Tashkent.
In her address, she highlighted Uzbekistan’s historic role in global trade, where European merchants once flocked to cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva for textiles and ceramics, returning with stories of the country’s magnificent palaces, landscapes, and diverse culture.
“Today, Uzbekistan wants to open up to the world once more,” she said. “You aim to reclaim your central position not only within Asia but also in global trade routes and investment flows. And Europe wants to be your partner in this new chapter of Uzbekistan’s thousand-year history.”
Von der Leyen noted three examples of recent advancements in EU-Uzbekistan relations:
1. Trade: Since 2021, European markets have been open to Uzbek goods, leading to a surge in exports, especially in textiles and metallurgy, with even greater growth potential ahead.
2. Investment: Through the Global Gateway program, the EU, alongside international partners, is investing up to €10 billion in the Trans-Caspian Corridor—the shortest and safest route between Europe and East Asia. This route will link Europe and Central Asia in under 15 days. Additionally, the EU is working to connect Uzbekistan to its satellite networks, bringing high-quality digital access to the country’s most remote areas.
3. Strategic Sectors: In April, the EU signed an agreement on a sustainable raw materials supply chain. “Unlike some investors who are only interested in raw material extraction, we support local industries, job creation, and added value with the highest standards,” she said, emphasizing that this approach strengthens sustainable supply chains. She expressed hope that the forum would foster new connections and transform the recent agreements into business opportunities.
Von der Leyen concluded by looking ahead, noting that the EU and Uzbekistan will soon sign a new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement to further boost trade and investment. She also shared her anticipation for the upcoming “Central Asia - European Union” summit, to be held in Samarkand next year, and expressed optimism about the future, remarking, “The best days of our partnership are still ahead.”
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