Uzbekistan, Slovenia Boost Labor Ties, Open Doors to European Jobs

A high-level meeting was held in Tashkent between Greta Metka Barbo Škerbinc, President of the World Association of Public Employment Services (WAPES) and Head of Slovenia’s Employment Service, and Behzod Musayev, Director of the Agency for Migration Issues of Uzbekistan in a move to strengthen bilateral cooperation and create new employment pathways for Uzbek citizens in Europe.

The meeting follows up on agreements made during the official visit of Uzbekistan’s president to Slovenia and signals a deepening of ties focused on safe, fair, and well-regulated labor migration, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

During the discussions, the two sides explored a range of collaborative initiatives, including the establishment of Slovenian language courses and vocational training centers in Uzbekistan. These efforts aim to equip prospective Uzbek workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate smoothly into the Slovenian workforce.

A major outcome of the meeting was the signing of employment agreements with more than ten leading Slovenian companies. Under the terms of the contracts, participating firms will offer Uzbek workers monthly salaries starting from 1,200 euros, along with benefits such as free accommodation, meals, and health insurance. This comprehensive support package is designed to ensure decent living and working conditions abroad.

The initiative is seen as a strategic step in expanding legal employment opportunities for Uzbek citizens and boosting their access to the European labor market, while also addressing workforce needs in Slovenia.

Officials from both countries emphasized the importance of developing safe migration channels and protecting workers’ rights through coordinated government-to-government efforts. The partnership is expected to serve as a model for similar cooperation frameworks with other European nations.