Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed developing a trade, investment, and technological interaction program between Uzbekistan and the USA, designed to run until 2035. This statement was made on October 19 during the second meeting of the America-Uzbek Business and Investment Council, held in Samarkand.
The event included participation from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy of the US President Sergio Gor, as well as representatives from several major American banks and companies.
According to Mirziyoyev, relations between the two countries have reached a new, higher level. The head of state emphasized the need to deepen economic ties based on political partnership, as well as to develop joint projects involving advanced technologies and new knowledge.
Promising areas of cooperation
Among the areas that could become priorities for cooperation, Mirziyoyev highlighted the extraction and subsequent deep processing of vital minerals. He also mentioned the development of the modern energy sector, the creation of data processing centers, and the integration of artificial intelligence into sectors such as industry, agriculture, education, and public administration.
The President separately commented on conditions for American investors. He stated that Uzbekistan is transitioning to a 'Plug and Play' model, which provides entrepreneurs with ready-made projects where issues related to obtaining permits, land plots, and infrastructure have already been resolved. This should significantly accelerate the business launch process and reduce bureaucratic delays.
Within these projects, Uzbek entrepreneurs will also be able to participate by taking on some financial risks. Furthermore, the attraction of the Direct Investment Fund is planned for the implementation of the outlined initiatives.
Mirziyoyev also suggested jointly forming new economic sectors and major hubs for industrial and technological development. In his conviction, the business and investment council should transform into a permanent platform for promoting common initiatives, eliminating systemic barriers for businesses, and strengthening long-term relations between the two states.
It was previously noted that Uzbekistan and the USA have signed 54 agreements in the fields of trade, technology, and investment, totaling an estimated $12 billion. These agreements cover transport, finance, healthcare, education, as well as mining, energy, digital technologies, and agriculture.