Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Photo: Press Service of the President of Uzbekistan
During his official visit to Belgium, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a roundtable with the heads of major European companies and banks. In the course of the discussion, the president identified four key areas for prospective investment cooperation, according to his press service.
Uzbekistan, he noted, is particularly interested in projects focused on the production of goods with high added value through the development and deep processing of strategic raw materials and minerals within the country.
Another important area for partnership is the green economy and chemical industry. Renewable energy is being actively introduced, and the energy system is undergoing modernization. European investors were invited to take part in corresponding projects.
The country is also prioritizing the development of infrastructure and logistics, improving its transport network, including highways, railways, and airports. At the same time, Uzbekistan is ready to support joint initiatives to create transit routes and logistics centers linking Europe and Asia.
Finally, special attention is being given to the digital economy and information technology. IT parks and startup incubators are being developed, and Mirziyoyev proposed wide-ranging cooperation with European investors in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
The president emphasized that the participation of leading European companies in the roundtable reflects the level of mutual trust and shared commitment to strengthening partnership. He noted that the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement will open a new chapter in relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union.
Mirziyoyev also highlighted the progress achieved in recent years: over the past seven years, trade turnover has doubled, and the number of joint enterprises now exceeds one thousand—an indication of European investors’ confidence in Uzbekistan’s economic reforms.
He expressed appreciation for European partners’ support in modernizing the national economy, introducing advanced technologies, corporate governance standards, and fostering innovation.
Human capital development remains a key priority as well. This includes projects in the field of education—such as establishing new universities, opening branches of leading foreign institutions, and implementing advanced academic programs.
According to Mirziyoyev’s press service, the meeting in Brussels was attended by top executives from Vandewiele, Linde, Rhenus Logistics, Ahlers Logistics, NextChem, Meridiam, SUEZ, the European Investment Bank, Commerzbank, Metso, and others.
