TASHKENT: The diplomatic and trade relations between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan have reached new heights, signifying a strategic alliance with promising economic and cultural collaboration.
The state visit of the Kazakh President to Uzbekistan on December 22, 2022, resulted in the signing of crucial agreements on allied relations and the demarcation of the state border, marking a significant step forward in their cooperative efforts.
During this visit, fifteen government-level documents were signed, including agreements to establish the Central Asia International Industrial Cooperation Center, fostering cooperation in environmental protection and education. Notably, trade contracts and investment agreements totaling $8 billion were inked, showcasing the strengthening economic bonds between the two nations.
Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjayev’s proposal for a joint foreign trade company and an international center for industrial cooperation gained momentum, leading to a trade mission of Kazakhstani producers and service providers in Tashkent. This initiative resulted in the signing of export contracts exceeding $44.1 million.
These developments underscore the shared commitment of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to promoting peace and prosperity in Central Asia amid global economic and political challenges. The deepening economic and cultural ties are poised to boost investment, enhance trade conditions, develop infrastructure, and elevate the quality of life for citizens in both nations.
Ministerial discussions between Laziz Kudratov of Uzbekistan and Arman Shakkaliyev of Kazakhstan emphasized the swift establishment of the International Industrial Cooperation Center “Central Asia.” The focus was on implementing investment agreements and trade contracts to achieve the target of increasing the bilateral trade turnover from $4.1 billion to $10 billion.
The establishment of UzKazTrade, a jointly created company offering an online trading platform, is pivotal in achieving this goal. Kazakhstan’s robust economic growth, evident in the increased freight transportation by rail and road, signals the development of transport infrastructure and the strengthening of regional trade relations.