08.06.2023

On June 8, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella held talks at the Quirinale Palace in Rome.

The President of Uzbekistan sincerely thanked for the invitation and warm hospitality, congratulated President Sergio Mattarella and the people of Italy on the national holiday - the Day of Republic Proclamation, which was held the day before.

The President of Italy confirmed his support for irreversible reforms in New Uzbekistan and praised the country’s efforts to ensure stability and prosperity in the Central Asian Region.

The Leaders of two countries discussed the issues of economic cooperation.

In recent years, mutual trade turnover and joint ventures have doubled. Leading Italian companies such as Pietro Fiorentini, Terranova, Danieli, Imago, Ansaldo, Saipem, and others operate successfully in Uzbekistan.

The Presidents welcomed the results of business forum held the day before, following which a solid package of agreements and contracts worth over € 9 billion was signed.

A particular attention was paid to the development of humanitarian ties. An agreement was reached to hold an exhibition of the cultural-historical heritage of Uzbekistan in Italy.

Besides, the prospects for cooperation in education, archeology, and interaction in environmental challenges were thoroughly discussed.

The branches of Turin and Pisa Universities are successfully functioning in Tashkent. Uzbekistan has participated in the Venice International Biennale for the third year consecutively.

Since the beginning of the year, the number of Italian tourists to Uzbekistan has increased five times. The launch of direct flights between Tashkent and Milan in April this year will contribute to the further growth of the tourist flow.

The Presidents also exchanged views on regional and international issues, primarily the situation in Afghanistan. The importance of continuing targeted humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people and holding regular consultations with special representatives was stressed.

Following the meeting, Shavkat Mirziyoyev invited Sergio Mattarella to pay an official visit to Uzbekistan.