Turkey and Uzbekistan explored opportunities to improve transportation and logistics capacities, specifically focusing on the Middle Corridor, presidential press service informed.
The third meeting of the Uzbekistan-Türkiye High-level Strategic Cooperation Council convened on June 6, under the joint chairmanship of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye. The meeting was held on the eve of Eid al-Adha and the 32nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Mutual Appreciation and Historic Relations
President Mirziyoyev expressed gratitude to President Erdoğan and the Turkish people for their warm hospitality. He remarked that the establishment of the Strategic Cooperation Council has ushered in a new chapter in Uzbekistan-Türkiye relations, providing a robust framework for comprehensive cooperation and development in various spheres.
Expanding Partnership Across Sectors
The meeting pointed out the rapid development of political dialogue, inter-parliamentary relations, and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Economic ties have also flourished, with mutual trade volume increasing by 1.5 times in recent years.
Ambitious Trade Goals and Investment Projects
Both leaders expressed their commitment to further enhancing bilateral trade, aiming to reach a volume of $5 bn in the near future. Over 100 projects are currently being implemented in Uzbekistan by leading Turkish companies, with a new portfolio of investment projects worth $10 bn formed during the meeting.
Strengthening Industrial Cooperation and Market Access
The importance of bolstering industrial cooperation, localizing high-value-added production, and jointly accessing third-country markets was emphasized. Both countries agreed on the need to reduce customs tariffs and establish a trade representative office of Uzbekistan in Istanbul under a preferential trade agreement.
Harnessing Turkey's Expertise in Key Sectors
President Mirziyoyev highlighted the importance of implementing Turkey's expertise in agriculture, water management, healthcare digitization, and the establishment of medical clusters through public-private partnerships.
Cultural and Educational Exchange
Cooperation in higher education, professional training, and cultural exchange programs such as theater festivals and joint film productions were highlighted as key areas for collaboration. Both parties expressed their commitment to preserving and restoring cultural heritage sites.
Outcome and Future Directions
The meeting culminated in the adoption of a declaration aimed at deepening cooperation across all sectors. The establishment of the Uzbekistan-Turkey Business Council, headed by the two leaders, was announced. Governments were tasked with approving a joint "roadmap" to implement the decisions made during the meeting.
In closing, President Mirziyoyev extended an invitation to President Erdogan to visit Uzbekistan for the next meeting of the council.
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