The 10th session of the Commission on Cooperation between the Federation Council of Russia and the Senate of the Oliy Majlis (parliament) of Uzbekistan has been held in Kazan, with a strong focus on enhancing inter-parliamentary dialogue, expanding interregional partnerships, and deepening collaboration in the economic and humanitarian sectors.
The high-level meeting took place at the State Council of Tatarstan and was co-chaired by Russian Senator Ilyas Umakhanov and First Deputy Chairman of the Uzbek Senate Sodiq Safoyev. Chairman of the Tatarstan State Council Farid Mukhametshin also participated in the discussions, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.
In his opening remarks, Umakhanov expressed appreciation for Tatarstan’s active role in promoting regional cooperation and praised its parliament for contributing to diplomatic engagement. He underscored the significance of parliamentary diplomacy in the current geopolitical climate and reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Uzbekistan, describing the country as “a long-standing friend and reliable ally.” Umakhanov emphasized the vital role of both legislatures in supporting the implementation of agreements made between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Mukhametshin noted the symbolic importance of holding the anniversary session in Kazan-a city that he described as a cultural crossroads between East and West. He emphasized Tatarstan’s continued efforts to expand its ties with Uzbekistan as part of the republic’s broader external economic and cultural strategy. Highlighting the region’s economic achievements, Mukhametshin reported that Tatarstan’s gross regional product reached 5.2 trillion rubles in 2024, with leading positions in industry, construction, and agriculture.
He also underlined Tatarstan’s successful model of interethnic harmony, pointing out that the republic is home to 175 nationalities, including nearly 15,000 Uzbeks. The Uzbek diaspora, he said, plays an active role in the cultural and social life of the region.
Safoyev echoed the importance of historical and cultural connections between Uzbekistan and Tatarstan, calling Kazan “a unique city that unites civilizations.” He noted that bilateral trade between Tatarstan and Uzbekistan is nearing $400 million, and highlighted promising areas of cooperation including agriculture, tourism, and education.
The session included detailed discussions on boosting agricultural exports, launching new educational initiatives, and increasing tourist exchanges. Mukhametshin shared that approximately 2,700 Uzbek students are currently studying in Tatarstan, and a branch of Kazan Federal University in Uzbekistan’s Jizzakh region continues to operate successfully.
Concluding the session, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening inter-parliamentary and interregional cooperation, grounded in the principles of "people’s diplomacy" and shared cultural heritage. Delegates also visited key regional institutions, including the Bashir Rameev IT Park and the House of Friendship of the Peoples of Tatarstan, where they explored Tatarstan’s innovation ecosystem and inclusive development approach.
