Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan Leaders Hold Informal Meeting in Almaty
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held an informal meeting today in Almaty to discuss the further development of bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries, as reported by the Presidential Press-Office.
During the meeting, which included members of both delegations, the leaders addressed key areas for deepening Uzbek-Kazakh cooperation in the spirit of good neighbourline, strategic partnership, and alliance.
At the start of the talks, the presidents exchanged warm congratulations with each other and their nations on the occasion of the spring holiday Navruz and the upcoming Ramadan Eid.
The two sides expressed satisfaction with the record-high level of multifaceted cooperation achieved between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. According to official figures, bilateral trade has grown by 14% since the beginning of the year. The countries have formed a joint investment project portfolio exceeding $4 bn, while interregional cooperation and cultural-humanitarian ties continue to expand.
The heads of state also heard reports from the Deputy Prime Ministers of both countries on measures being taken to increase mutual trade and promote joint projects in key sectors, including mechanical engineering, electrical equipment, oil and gas, textiles, agriculture and other priority industries.
Following the discussions, the presidents gave specific instructions to:
- Develop a long-term industrial cooperation program
- Accelerate the implementation of regional infrastructure projects
- Begin practical work this year on launching the International Center for Industrial Cooperation
- Expand the activities of the joint foreign trade company
In addition, the leaders exchanged views on the regional agenda, including preparations for several upcoming Central Asian summits, which Uzbekistan will host in the coming months. The meeting also reviewed the schedule of planned bilateral and multilateral events.
The informal talks were held in a traditionally warm, friendly and businesslike atmosphere.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Uzbekistan is focusing on mutually beneficial economic cooperation with Afghanistan.
