An Uzbek delegation led by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov visited Hong Kong to strengthen trade and economic ties. Here is how CCTV+ reports it.

A China-Uzbekistan business forum was held Wednesday in Hong Kong, where Uzbek business people pledged deeper ties with the Chinese special administrative region and signed 15 bilateral agreements to enhance cooperation across key sectors including energy, agriculture, and mining.

A delegation from Uzbekistan was in Hong Kong to explore deepening trade and economic ties. Led by Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, the visiting group of about 100 members participated in a series of events, including the Uzbekistan-China (Hong Kong) Economic Forum.

In his opening speech, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee highlighted the city's active role in the Belt and Road Initiative, offering financing, professional services, and expertise to Uzbekistan and other partner nations.

"For Uzbek enterprises here with us today, if you're looking to tap into the vast Chinese market, Hong Kong is your ideal partner. Hong Kong speaks the language of international business. Our financial experts can help you raise capital. Our lawyers, accountants and arbitration specialists can guide you and your business every step of the way," Lee said.

The chief executive noted that government and business ties are growing stronger between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan, and that the forum would pave the way for a far-reaching and mutually rewarding partnership.

With China being Uzbekistan's largest trading partner, Aripov stressed the importance of the relationship between the two countries, adding that bilateral trade had tripled over the past five years and is projected to hit 20 billion U.S. dollars in 2026.

The prime minister further outlined six priority areas of cooperation, including green energy, agriculture, and the mining industry, which is Uzbekistan's fastest growing sector with 2.2 billion dollars in planned investments.

Aripov and Lee witnessed the exchange of 15 bilateral agreements signed between China and Uzbekistan, which include the construction of a 150 megawatt energy storage system in Uzbekistan's Samarkand region, and agricultural development in the Jizzakh region.

The event also featured an exhibition showcasing Uzbek industries ranging from agriculture and textiles to tourism, with officials and industry representatives on hand to introduce investment opportunities.

Prior to the forum, Aripov and Lee met to exchange views on strengthening cooperation. Lee said that Hong Kong is working to become an international post-secondary education hub and welcomed more young people from Uzbekistan to study and build careers in the city, aiming to boost people-to-people and cultural exchanges between the two places.