TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, October 29. Uzbekistan and the EU have agreed to work closely together to ensure a strong upward trajectory of their partnership, wrote Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov in a post on X, TurkicWorld reports.
"Had a productive meeting with Terhi Hakala, the EU Special Representative for Central Asia. There is an increasing need for enriching Uzbekistan and the EU cooperation with tangible outcomes. Underscored that Central Asia — European Union Summit serves as an important platform to develop and bring new initiatives to life. Agreed to closely work together to ensure the strong upward trajectory of our partnership," he said.
According to the European Commission’s lead spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Peter Stano, currently a new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between the EU and Uzbekistan is being prepared for signature and entry into force.
The agreement covers areas such as political dialogue and reforms, the rule of law, justice, freedom and security, human rights, migration, trade, and economic and sustainable development. It will promote a favorable business and investment environment. It also foresees closer cooperation on foreign policy issues and global challenges such as climate change, corruption, and the fight against terrorism.
Once the new EPCA enters into force, it will allow the EU and Uzbekistan to boost their cooperation across a wide range of areas, including political cooperation and reforms.
