Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan’s Consul General in Novosibirsk, Aslam Akbarov, held talks in Tomsk with Vasily Potyomkin, Deputy Governor of Tomsk Region for Economic Development, Investment Policy, and Property Relations, the “Dunyo” news agency reports.

The Russian side expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended to the Tomsk regional delegation during their visit to Tashkent in April 2025, where they participated in the 5th International Industrial Exhibition "INNOPROM. Central Asia."

The meetings held and agreements reached during the event were highlighted as important outcomes of the rapidly expanding interregional ties. Both sides emphasized Uzbekistan’s status as one of Tomsk Region’s key external economic partners, currently ranking second among the region’s trade partners and accounting for 19.3% of its total trade turnover. Expanding economic engagement with Uzbekistan was reaffirmed as a strategic priority for Tomsk's regional authorities.

A significant portion of the talks focused on the practical implementation of previously signed agreements, particularly in areas such as industrial cooperation, oil and gas, and the chemical industry.

The historic first business delegation from Tomsk to Uzbekistan in April 2025 was underscored as a milestone in strengthening bilateral economic and industrial cooperation.

The parties confirmed upcoming visits to Tomsk by delegations from Uzkimyosanoat JSC, Uzbekneftegaz JSC, and representatives of the Syrdarya regional administration. Online negotiations between Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Energy and relevant institutions in Tomsk are also scheduled for the near future.

Discussions also covered the expansion of cooperation in cultural, humanitarian, and educational fields. The Russian side fully supported the Consulate General’s initiative to host a presentation in Tomsk this August showcasing Uzbekistan’s cultural and tourism potential, as well as festivities marking the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence.

Additionally, Russian officials agreed to consider increasing university quotas and scholarship opportunities in Tomsk for students from Uzbekistan.