President of Uzbekistan Receives Credentials from Newly Appointed Foreign Ambassadors
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: A formal ceremony was held on March 6 for the presentation of credentials by newly appointed foreign ambassadors to Uzbekistan. President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, received credentials from the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassadors of Egypt, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Georgia, and Türkiye.
President Mirziyoyev warmly congratulated the ambassadors on commencing their honorable missions in New Uzbekistan. He highlighted that in today’s geopolitical climate, characterized by intensifying global conflicts and competition, mutual cooperation among friendly nations is more essential than ever. The President emphasized Uzbekistan’s commitment to an open and pragmatic foreign policy that fosters mutual respect and practical partnerships worldwide.
Strengthening Regional and International Relations
President Mirziyoyev underscored the transformation of Central Asia into a region of trust, good-neighborliness, and integration, thanks to shared political will. He noted that Uzbekistan is currently chairing the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia and is preparing for a historic summit in Tashkent.
The President also highlighted Uzbekistan’s expanding international engagement, including the upcoming “Central Asia – European Union” summit in April and the “Central Asia – Arab States of the Gulf” meeting in May. He noted that Uzbekistan has successfully initiated 11 UN resolutions and will host the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference this year. Additionally, Uzbekistan will assume the chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement in 2027, reinforcing its global influence.
Expanding Economic and Diplomatic Partnerships
Uzbekistan continues to attract significant foreign investment, with a record $35 billion in foreign capital secured last year and exports surpassing $27 billion. Preparations are underway for the Tashkent Investment Forum, which will introduce a new innovative format.
The President highlighted Uzbekistan’s bilateral relations with each ambassador’s respective country, emphasizing mutual economic cooperation, political collaboration, and cultural exchange:
- Egypt: President Mirziyoyev praised Egypt as a key Middle Eastern partner, anticipating President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s upcoming visit. He stressed joint projects in energy, agriculture, tourism, and industry.
- Italy: Italy remains a strategic partner, with major collaborations in green energy, agriculture, healthcare, and education. Plans include a joint investment fund and a high-level official visit.
- Kyrgyzstan: Bilateral trade has quadrupled, and joint ventures have increased to 300. The President highlighted the significance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project.
- Belarus: Economic cooperation has expanded, with a rising number of joint enterprises and ongoing trade growth. The President emphasized strengthening ties in healthcare, agriculture, and industry.
- Georgia: Trade turnover surged by 50% last year, and partnerships in logistics, transit, and pharmaceuticals are growing. The President welcomed Georgia’s recent high-level visit to Uzbekistan.
- Türkiye: Uzbekistan-Türkiye relations have evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership, with trade reaching $3 billion and investment flows at $2 billion. An International University of Turkic States is being established in Tashkent.
Diplomatic Commitments and Future Prospects
At the conclusion of the ceremony, President Mirziyoyev wished the ambassadors success in their diplomatic missions and encouraged them to maximize opportunities for strengthening bilateral ties. In response, the diplomats expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering deeper cooperation with Uzbekistan.
