The Third European Union – Central Asia Economic Forum concluded in Tashkent, bringing together more than 400 experts from 32 countries.

The participation of European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela and European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos underscored the importance of the event for strengthening regional economic cooperation.

In his opening speech, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjayev noted that relations between the EU and Central Asia are steadily developing, mutual trust is strengthening, and the volume of trade has quadrupled over the past seven years, reaching 54 billion euros. According to him, over the past decade, the EU has become the region’s leading investor.

Mr. Khodjayev also emphasized the special role of international financial institutions in this process. In 2024, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development allocated a record $2.26 billion to the region, of which $938 million was directed specifically to Uzbekistan. Such cooperation provides a solid foundation for the implementation of infrastructure and socio-economic projects.

Special attention at the forum was given to practical measures to attract investment, strengthen production chains, and develop human capital.

[gallery-26432]

Musulmon Ziyo, photos by Uktam Khayitov, UzA