Copyright daryo
Uzbekistan and the European Union are set to implement new projects worth more than €10bn, following high-level meetings in Brussels between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, European Council President Antonio Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The discussions took place at the Europa building, the headquarters of the Council of Europe, focusing on expanding Uzbekistan-Europe cooperation in line with the agreements reached during the first Central Asia–EU Summit held in Samarkand in April 2025. Leaders welcomed the signing of the historic Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, which not only broadens the legal framework for bilateral cooperation but also establishes a new agenda for collaboration. The agreement is expected to boost trade, investment, transport, energy, climate initiatives, high technologies, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation with EU member states. The parties also highlighted the completion of bilateral negotiations on Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization, marking a significant step in integrating the country into global trade frameworks. Ahead of the Brussels visit, the Uzbek delegation participated in the second Global Gateway Forum of the European Union, while meetings of the Cooperation Council and the Subcommittee on Economy, Trade, and Investment were successfully held. A large joint business forum brought together Uzbek officials with heads of leading European companies and financial institutions. As a result, new projects in energy, chemicals, key minerals, logistics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals were agreed upon, totaling over €10bn. These projects add to an existing portfolio with European participation worth more than €40bn. Both sides emphasized the need to strengthen institutional mechanisms, implement further investment and development projects in key sectors, and simplify visa procedures to facilitate business and humanitarian exchanges. Leaders also exchanged views on current international and regional issues, culminating in a joint statement at the conclusion of the meeting.
