The main attention was paid to the issues of further development of trade-economic cooperation.
It should be noted that positive dynamics are observed in this direction. Thus, the trade turnover has grown more than fivefold over the past four years and exceeded $900 million.
The heads of state emphasized that further development of mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation is a priority area of strategic partnership. It was noted that due to the diversification of trade and the expansion of its range in the coming years, its volume can be doubled.
To this end, the parties agreed to take the necessary measures to supply products that are in high demand in the markets of the two countries, including with high added value, export-import operations and the development of foreign trade infrastructure. The important role of Uzbekistan – Kyrgyzstan Intergovernmental Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in strengthening trade-economic ties was noted. The heads of government were instructed to hold the next meeting of the commission shortly to practically implement the agreements. The need for expanding the activities of trading houses, holding business forums and exhibitions of industrial products was emphasized.
Agreements were reached on the implementation of specific projects of industrial cooperation in various sectors of the economy. In particular, in organizing the assembly of cars, agricultural and household appliances in Kyrgyzstan, as well as the production of textile products and building materials in the border regions.
A decision was made to create Uzbekistan – Kyrgyz Investment Fund. The governments of the two countries were instructed to organize its activities.
The transport sector and the development of transit corridors is an important area of Uzbekistan – Kyrgyz cooperation. Efforts in this direction will provide the shortest and most efficient access to foreign markets. In particular, the construction of Uzbekistan – Kyrgyzstan – China railway is of strategic importance.
The Presidents emphasized that the early construction of this route fully meets the fundamental interests of the two countries and will help to increase the attractiveness of our region as the most profitable and efficient transit corridor. In this regard, the leaders agreed to continue to work together on this important project.
The international multimodal route Tashkent – Andijan – Osh – Irkeshtam – Kashgar will also contribute to the increase in mutual trade. It was noted that the resumption of bus, rail and air communication between the cities of the two countries will become an important factor in increasing the flow of goods, passengers and tourists.
Another important area is cooperation between the regions, for the development of which the intergovernmental agreement of September 5, 2017, as well as agreements between the regions and cities of the two countries, are being implemented. In 2018, the Council of Hokims and Heads of Administrations of Border Regions were formed.
The need was noted for further intensifying interregional cooperation, ensuring the implementation of the agreements reached, comprehensive development of border regions, and creating favorable conditions for the population at checkpoints. The practical implementation of these agreements will be carried out within the framework of the roadmaps agreed on the eve of the visit between Andijan, Namangan, Fergana regions, on the one hand, and Osh, Jalal-Abad, Batken and Naryn regions, on the other.
The parties reaffirmed their commitment to the integrated and rational use of water and energy resources in Central Asia. An agreement was reached on the development of long-term sustainable mechanisms of interaction in this sphere. The readiness of Uzbekistan to participate in the implementation of hydropower projects in Kyrgyzstan was expressed.
Cooperation issues in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, which is an important factor in strengthening friendly relations and increasing mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries, were discussed.
The parties agreed to develop cooperation in science, education, culture, sports and tourism. Noting the important role of cultural exchange in strengthening mutual understanding and friendly relations between the peoples, the heads of state agreed to resume the days of culture and other humanitarian events.
The President of Kyrgyzstan expressed gratitude for the humanitarian assistance provided by Uzbekistan during the coronavirus pandemic. The importance of developing cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, including enhancing partnerships in the supply of medicines and medical supplies, was noted.
