Today, on November 17, talks were held between President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev in a narrow format at the Kuksaroy residence in Tashkent.

It was emphasized that the current state visit of the President of Turkmenistan is a crucial step towards further strengthening Uzbek-Turkmen relations of friendship, good-neighborliness, and strategic partnership, which have reached an unprecedented, exemplary level in recent years.

The heads of state noted with satisfaction the positive dynamics and active contacts in all areas, including regular meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission and the Business Council. They also commended the successful Days of Culture and film screenings of Turkmenistan held in Urgench and Tashkent in the lead-up to the visit, which once again confirmed the close cultural and humanitarian ties between the two fraternal peoples.

Particular attention was paid to economic indicators. Last year, bilateral trade exceeded $1 billion, a direct result of the targeted policies pursued by the heads of state. At the same time, the efficiency of Turkmenistan's transport and transit infrastructure, particularly the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, was identified as a key factor in the development of logistics chains and the growth of freight traffic.

During the talks, a number of priorities were identified for further expanding mutual trade and deepening cooperation in industry, energy, transport, and mechanical engineering, strengthening cooperation in agriculture and water management, and expanding interregional exchanges.

To further advance interregional cooperation, an agreement was reached to hold the third Forum of Regions in the historic city of Khiva, which will contribute to strengthening direct ties between the regions of the two countries.

A constructive exchange of views on pressing regional and international issues took place, confirming Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan's shared approach to ensuring stability and sustainable development in Central Asia.

ORIENT