Uzbekistan and Finland Launch €1 Bn Joint Project Portfolio

At the Kuksaroy Presidential Residence, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and President Alexander Stubb of Finland held talks attended by members of their official delegations. The discussions focused on prospects for further strengthening the wide-ranging Uzbek-Finnish partnership, particularly in political, economic, investment and humanitarian fields.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the steady progress of political dialogue, growing exchanges at various levels and the intensification of business contacts. Mutual trade volumes continue to expand, supported by stronger economic and corporate ties. The Nordic University, established in cooperation with Finland, is successfully operating in Uzbekistan, alongside joint programmes in school education.

Following the Uzbek-Finnish business forum held earlier in the day, a portfolio of promising joint projects worth more than €1 bn was formed. The talks also explored ways to significantly increase bilateral trade, including through the creation of a Joint Trade Finance Fund to encourage mutual supplies.

The two sides backed initiatives to open certification laboratories that would help Uzbek agricultural and textile goods enter European Union markets. Priority was given to expanding cooperation in key sectors such as geology and critical materials, energy, agriculture, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, environment and tourism.

Agreements were reached to hold the next session of the Intergovernmental Commission in 2026 and to establish a Business Council. Both parties also expressed interest in enhancing interregional cooperation.

Further discussions covered collaboration in education, healthcare and labour migration. The first Forum of Rectors and Innovations is scheduled to take place next year.

The two presidents also exchanged views on pressing regional and international issues, reaffirming their shared commitment to continued partnership and dialogue.