On June 9, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held talks with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico at the Kuksaroy residence.
The discussions focused on current issues concerning the further development of practical cooperation between Uzbekistan and Slovakia, The Caspian Post reports citing Uzbek media.
At the beginning of the meeting, the President of Uzbekistan emphasized that this visit marks a qualitatively new stage in the history of multifaceted relations between Uzbekistan and Slovakia.
The dynamic development of cooperation in all areas was noted with satisfaction. Constructive political dialogue has been established between the foreign ministries. Business and humanitarian exchanges have intensified.
Trade turnover is steadily growing. In May, the first session of the Intergovernmental Commission was held successfully, and work is underway on several new cooperation areas and joint projects.
In light of current global challenges and the unpredictable international environment, the importance of systematic cooperation, coordination, and mutual support between the foreign ministries, particularly as part of a partnership with European institutions, was emphasized.
Special attention was given to increasing trade turnover, primarily through expanding the range of mutual supplies.
This includes exports from Uzbekistan, such as textile, agricultural, electrical, chemical products, and polymers, and from Slovakia, rubber, automotive components, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial goods.
As part of the practical implementation of the signed agreements in technical regulation and metrology, the importance of removing technical barriers and launching a quantum reference laboratory was highlighted.
An agreement was reached to develop a comprehensive Program of Industrial Cooperation with leading Slovak companies. This program will include projects in the agro-industrial sector, localization of automotive components, pharmaceutical production, and green energy and tourism initiatives.
There is significant potential in the implementation of digital solutions and startup investments. In this context, a proposal was made to explore the establishment of a joint venture fund to accelerate IT startups.
It was also proposed to broadly use available financial instruments to support joint projects.
In the humanitarian sphere, both sides reaffirmed their mutual interest in expanding educational and academic exchange. An agreement was reached to launch joint research programs, including those involving Comenius University in Bratislava.
The parties agreed to adopt a Cooperation Program in culture, including mutual exhibitions, film screenings, concerts, and joint projects in the museum sector.
Special attention was given to the issue of organized labor migration. The Slovak side expressed strong interest in establishing systematic cooperation in this area.
Views were also exchanged on international issues, including mutual support within multilateral platforms.
In conclusion, an agreement was reached that the two countries’ governments will adopt a comprehensive roadmap to ensure the timely and effective implementation of the decisions and agreements adopted.
