On October 24, as part of his official visit to Belgium, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a roundtable meeting with heads of leading European companies and banks.
The meeting was attended by the EU Commissioner for enlargement Marta Kos, the top management from companies and corporations such as Vandewiele, Linde, Rhenus Logistics, Ahlers Logistics, Lasselsberger Group, Pietro Fiorentini, NextChem, Meridiam, SUEZ, FMO, European Investment Bank, Commerzbank, KfW, Textima, Chimcomplex, Metso, and others.
The Uzbek leader emphasized that the attendance of leading European companies in the event reflects the high level of mutual trust and aspirations to strengthening cooperation.
Over the past seven years, EU-Uzbekistan trade turnover has increased twofold, while the number of joint ventures with European capital has exceeded one thousand, testifying to growing investor confidence in Uzbekistan’s economic reforms.
The president noted the support of European partners in modernizing Uzbekistan’s economy, implementing deep structural reforms, introducing advanced technologies, corporate governance standards, and developing innovative industries.
Mirziyoyev outlined four key areas for further cooperation.
Uzbekistan is interested in jointly developing projects to produce high value-added finished goods through the processing of strategic raw materials and minerals within the country.
Another promising area of cooperation is the “green” economy and chemical industry. The country is actively developing renewable energy and modernizing its power system. European partners were invited to participate in projects in green energy generation, energy storage, and environmentally friendly chemical production.
Infrastructure and logistics development were also identified as priorities. Uzbekistan is modernizing its transport network, including highways, railways, and airports. The country is ready to engage in joint projects on transit corridors and the creation of modern logistics hubs connecting Europe and Asia.
Special attention was paid to the digital economy and IT. Uzbekistan is developing IT parks and startup incubators, and stands ready to cooperate with European companies in the areas of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
The participants of the roundtable highly appreciated the transparent and stable investment environment created in Uzbekistan and confirmed their readiness to take part in new joint projects and initiatives in the country.
Photo: president.uz
