Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 23 January, a telephone conversation took place between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, during which key issues of bilateral and regional relations were discussed.

The President of Uzbekistan congratulated Charles Michel on his election as the President of the European Council and wished him success in his new role.

Highlighting the achievements, both sides expressed satisfaction with the fact that Uzbek-European cooperation has reached a new level in recent years and continues to develop dynamically across various areas. Contacts at various levels are actively continuing. In 2024, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with the EU exceeded 6 billion euros, and the total volume of projects with European companies reached 30 billion euros.

An important agreement on strategic partnership in critical mineral resources was also signed. Cooperation is actively developing in areas such as transportation and digital connectivity, green economy, culture, and other fields.

The Presidents expressed confidence that an Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Union would soon be signed, providing a significant boost to the development of bilateral relations.

Additionally, international and regional issues were discussed, including preparations for the first "Central Asia – EU" summit, which will take place in Samarkand in April 2025.