Uzbekistan and Belarus have taken their bilateral relations to a new level after Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Alexander Lukashenko signed a landmark declaration establishing a strategic partnership between the two countries during high-level talks in Minsk.

The leaders described the agreement as a historic milestone, saying it formalizes a long-term commitment to deepening cooperation based on equality, mutual respect, trust, and shared interests, The Caspian Post reports via Gazeta.uz.

President Mirziyoyev said the declaration reflects both countries' strong determination to build a comprehensive and lasting partnership.

The visit also resulted in the signing of a broad package of agreements, including a roadmap for trade and economic cooperation through 2030. The plan aims to increase bilateral trade from nearly $1 billion in 2025 to $2 billion by 2030, building on trade volumes that have tripled over the past five years.

Highlighting the growing economic relationship, Mirziyoyev arrived in Minsk with a record delegation representing 230 Uzbek companies and entrepreneurs, alongside officials from the country's three largest regions-Tashkent, Fergana, and Andijan-underscoring the scale of future investment and business opportunities.

Beyond trade, the two nations agreed to expand cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy, tourism, healthcare, education, and cultural exchanges. Joint forums in these sectors are expected to take place before the end of the year, while both governments pledged to strengthen humanitarian ties.

During the talks, Mirziyoyev also welcomed Belarus' initiative to establish the Alley of Uzbek-Belarus Friendship in Minsk, calling it a symbol of the growing relationship between the two nations.

President Lukashenko said Minsk and Tashkent share common views on major international issues, emphasizing support for a multipolar world and closer coordination on foreign policy while prioritizing national interests.