Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan Outline a New Agenda: $2 Billion in Trade and Joint Development of Oil Fields
During the state visit of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to the Republic of Uzbekistan, expanded-format talks were held with the participation of official delegations from both countries.
At the beginning of the meeting, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that this visit is a clear confirmation of the inviolability of the centuries-old ties of friendship and good-neighborliness between the two fraternal peoples.
The significant contribution of National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in building the current exemplary strategic partnership was particularly noted.
The heads of state noted the high effectiveness of their joint efforts in trade, transport, energy, water management, and other important areas.
Current issues related to the further expansion of Turkmen-Uzbek relations were discussed. The parties noted the growth of mutual trade, which has doubled in recent years, exceeding $1 billion. A goal was set to reach $2 billion by expanding the range of goods and effectively leveraging the free trade regime.
A key step in this direction will be the launch of the Shavat-Dashoguz border trade zone, as well as the expansion of this experience to other border areas, particularly in the Alat-Farab region.
Significant agreements were reached in the energy sector: the parties agreed to move on to larger-scale projects, including the joint development of promising deposits. Furthermore, to expand industrial cooperation, businesses will be actively involved in the launch of new joint projects in the production of pharmaceuticals, construction materials, and food products.
Transportation was highlighted as a link between the economies of the two countries. To further increase cargo volumes and simplify customs and logistics procedures, the parties agreed to jointly develop the capacity of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport and resume direct flights between the capitals.
The humanitarian sphere forms a solid foundation for these multifaceted ties. The success of the Days of Turkmenistan Culture, held in Uzbekistan on the eve of the visit, was noted. To maintain the momentum of cooperation, they agreed to regularly hold reciprocal concerts and theater tours, organize a Youth Forum in Khiva, and intensify exchanges in the healthcare sector.
Following the talks, the heads of state instructed their respective officials to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the timely and systematic implementation of all agreements reached.
ORIENT
