Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In recent years, the relations between Uzbekistan and China have significantly developed, noted the Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Yu Jun.
He emphasized that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, bilateral cooperation has "reached a new level of all-weather, comprehensive strategic partnership in a new era."
"Our leaders maintain constant contacts both bilaterally and in multilateral frameworks, which fosters a high level of mutual trust and deep personal friendships," the ambassador underscored. He also highlighted two meetings between the leaders that took place this year, contributing to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation.
Yu Jun reported on the frequency of high-level visits between the two countries. For example, Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and Senate Chairperson Tanzila Narbaeva have visited China multiple times. From the Chinese side, high-ranking officials, such as Zhao Lezhi, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, and Vice Premier Liu Guozhong, have visited Uzbekistan on official trips.
"In 2023, trade turnover between China and Uzbekistan reached a new record of $14 billion. From January to August, bilateral trade volume exceeded $8 billion, and China continues to be Uzbekistan’s main trading partner," Yu Jun stated.
He added that over 2,900 Chinese enterprises are registered in Uzbekistan, actively implementing joint projects.
"Uzbekistan firmly adheres to the principle of ‘One China’ and consistently supports China’s position on issues related to Taiwan, Xinjiang, and human rights," he emphasized, noting that China highly values this support.
The ambassador expressed confidence in the bright future of China-Uzbekistan relations: "We are ready to work together with our Uzbek friends to fully implement the agreements reached by the heads of state." He highlighted the need to strengthen political mutual trust, activate cooperation in the economy, education, and culture, and enhance interaction in multilateral frameworks.
"I firmly believe that the friendship between China and Uzbekistan will only strengthen, and the path to the revival of both countries will become wider and wider!" the ambassador concluded.