The President of Uzbekistan sincerely thanked for the invitation and warm hospitality and congratulated President Sergio Mattarella and the people of Italy on the eve of the national holiday – the Proclamation Day of the Republic.

The President of Italy confirmed his support for irreversible reforms in New Uzbekistan and praised the country’s efforts to ensure stability and prosperity in the Central Asian region.

The heads of state discussed issues of economic cooperation.

In recent years, mutual trade turnover and joint ventures have doubled. Leading Italian companies such as Pietro Fiorentini, Terranova, Danieli, Imago, Ansaldo, Saipem, and others operate successfully in Uzbekistan.

The Presidents welcomed the results of the business forum held the day before, following which a solid package of agreements and contracts worth over 9 billion euros was signed.

Special attention was paid to the development of humanitarian ties. An agreement was reached to hold an exhibition of the cultural-historical heritage of Uzbekistan in Italy.

Prospects for cooperation in education, archeology, and interaction in environmental challenges were also discussed in detail.

Branches of Turin and Pisa Universities are successfully functioning in Tashkent. For the third year, Uzbekistan participates in the Venice Biennale.

Since the beginning of the year, the number of Italian tourists to Uzbekistan has increased five times. The launch of direct flights between Tashkent and Milan in April this year will contribute to the further growth of the tourist flow.

The two countries’ leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues, primarily the situation in Afghanistan. The importance of continuing targeted humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people and holding regular consultations with special representatives was stressed.

Following the meeting, Shavkat Mirziyoyev invited Sergio Mattarella to pay an official visit to Uzbekistan.