31.05.2019

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has received Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, who arrived in our country on a working visit.

The head of our state, warmly welcoming the distinguished guest, noted with deep satisfaction the advancement of constructive political dialogue and productive practical cooperation with the European Union in trade and the economy in general, innovations, science, technology and the cultural-humanitarian field.

It was stressed that the first visit by the European Council President, taking place in the year of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the European Union, is suggestive of the growing mutual desire to enhance and bolster the multidimensional partnership.

Regular meetings of the Council and the Uzbekistan-EU Cooperation Committee, the development of inter-parliamentary exchanges, frequent visits to our country by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini and other high-ranking officials of the European Union are indicative of the intensification of contacts in recent years.

Uzbekistan and the EU have kicked off negotiations on the draft new Expanded Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.

Volumes of trade turnover and the range of investment projects with the EU nations have been growing. Consultations are held towards delivering environment conducive for boosting trade operations and investments.

In addition, Uzbekistan has enjoyed support from European partners in issues concerning accession to the World Trade Organization.

The country’s partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has been resumed and is enhancing. Initial joint projects have been launched with the European Investment Bank in priority sectors of the national economy.

Horizon 2020 and Erasmus Plus programs have been facilitating dynamic academic exchanges.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Donald Tusk focused on issues pertinent to furthering the practical cooperation in the economy, trade, innovations and investments, transport, science, education and healthcare.

It was underscored during the meeting that the reforms in progress in Uzbekistan to liberalize the economy open up opportunities for a broader presence of leading European businesses in our country, for more vigorous attraction of cutting-edge technologies, advanced experience and high standards.

The sides noted the importance of strengthening the cooperation in the region in accordance with the provisions of the new EU Strategy for Central Asia.

The European Council President said he highly appreciates Uzbekistan’s practical efforts to weather the negative impact of the environmental disaster in the Aral Sea basin. Donald Tusk confirmed willingness for active cooperation within the framework of the Multi-Partner Human Security Trust Fund for the Aral Sea Region.

During the conversation, the two sides also exchanged views on other topical issues in the international and regional agenda, including the peaceful settlement in Afghanistan.

In conclusion, underscored was the shared commitment to the further consolidation of comprehensive partnership and the enhancement of multi-faceted interaction in the interests of ensuring stability and sustainable development in the entire region.