A high-level meeting on “Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Europe - Cooperation for Common Development” is currently being held in Tashkent.
Former leaders of the Republic of Latvia and the Republic of Serbia participating in the conference share their opinions and impressions, The Caspian Post reports citing citing Uzbek media.
Valdis Zatlers, former President of Latvia (2007-2011):
- Uzbekistan, as a country with a rapidly developing economy and high population density, has significant potential to take a leading position in the economic development of Central Asia. In this process, regional cooperation can become the key to significant successes, ensuring economic growth and the well-being of the population. During my visits to Uzbekistan, I regularly observe positive changes in various areas of public life.
The purpose of this conference is direct dialogue. Representatives of the European Union, the Caucasus countries, and local experts are discussing ways to establish interregional cooperation based on peace, stability, and mutual trust. In the face of global challenges and uncertainty, it is cooperation that will lead to prosperity and progress.
Significant figures born in Uzbekistan have made invaluable contributions to world civilization. We deeply value your historic cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, which have become centers of cultural heritage.
Every country needs a leader who can look into the future. Only in this way can a nation gain the opportunity for rapid development and prosperity. A leader needs to explain to society the benefits that reforms and regional cooperation will bring. He must have strong willpower and confidence in his ideas to bring them to life.
From this perspective, it must be acknowledged that the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has chosen the path of reform and liberalization of the national economy, ensuring consistently high growth rates despite increasing global instability.
Walking through the streets of Tashkent and other cities, one can feel the energetic spirit of the people and their confidence in the future. The truth is shaped not by fine words, but in the hearts and minds of ordinary people. The Uzbekistan people are satisfied with the reforms being implemented.
This is of great significance for Central Asia, especially for Uzbekistan, the most populous country in the region. Firm confidence, practical projects, and long-term plans can serve as the foundation for shared success.
Boris Tadić, former President of Serbia (2004-2012):
- Uzbekistan has a great history and today plays an important role not only in Central Asia but also on the international stage. This region is currently one of the most sensitive geostrategic areas in the world. Therefore, it is impossible to imagine stability and development in Central Asia without the influence of Uzbekistan. I am referring not only to politics, but also to such vital spheres as digitalization, economic and technological development, and education.
Uzbekistan has significant demographic potential. The country’s young population aspires to direct participation in the process of global development.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is at the forefront of large-scale reforms. We highly value his efforts in this direction.
It is worth noting that on both sides of the Caspian Sea, two countries can become reliable allies for us in politics, energy, technology, and international relations.
Delegates from various countries are participating in the meeting in Tashkent. We seek to develop constructive dialogue with Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, as well as with other countries and international institutions.
