The event was attended by representatives of 32 countries. The delegation of the European Union was headed by European Commissioners Josef Sikela and Marta Kos.

Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjaev noted the dynamic development of cooperation: over the past seven years, mutual trade between the EU and Central Asian countries has quadrupled and reached €54 billion. The EU remains Uzbekistan's largest investor.

The forum emphasized that these preferential regimes have expanded the access of the region's products to the EU market, accelerated the modernization of enterprises and strengthened economic stability. The contribution of European financial institutions remains significant: in 2024, the EBRD alone sent $2.26 billion to Central Asia, of which $938 million went to Uzbekistan.

At the "Enhancing connectivity" session, Uzbekistan was represented by Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Akram Aliyev. He outlined the key priorities - the development of transport and logistics infrastructure, digitalization of procedures and support for the private sector.

The forum's discussions covered the issues of improving the investment climate, human capital development, regional integration and the formation of sustainable value chains. As a result of the event, six documents were signed on cooperation in the fields of ecology, irrigation, geodata, regulation and a number of other areas.

The strengthening partnership between the EU and Central Asian countries opens up additional prospects for Uzbekistan, creating the basis for long-term projects and sustainable economic growth.