On June 17 this year, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan S. Umurzakov and Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation A. Overchuk headed expanded Uzbek-Russian intergovernmental negotiations. This event was dedicated to the discussion of the progress and prospects for the development of multi-faceted bilateral cooperation and involved the heads of main ministers and departs of both countries.

The parties emphasized that regular dialogue both at the high and the governmental levels made strategic relations between the countries systemic and enabled significant progress in all partnership areas.

They noted the success in the industrial cooperation i.e. consensus on joint Road Map to deepen industrial cooperation providing implementation of a number of new projects in agricultural and light industry, electrical and automotive industry, energy, oil, gas, and woodworking industries. The negotiations provided a direct contact between the relevant departments of two countries, provided prompt consideration of some pressing concerns in every promising area of cooperation.

In particular, considering the available resources, the parties reviewed possible establishment of agro-industrial clusters in both countries providing for a full cycle of production of sunflower oil, meat and dairy products, production and processing of agricultural products. Besides, they considered a number of initiatives to establish joint ventures producing yarn, fabrics, finishing materials and knitwear, harvesting, and processing of wood, manufacturing electrical products, and vehicles.

The parties agreed to accelerate approved projects and initiatives and, as well as monthly monitor their progress and inform the business community of Uzbekistan and Russia on the possible build-up of investment partnerships and mechanisms increasing bilateral trade.

They also touched upon cooperation in logistics: prospects to establish joint freight forwarding enterprises, logistics and wholesale distribution centers for storage and transportation of fruits and vegetables within both countries. According to the consensus view of the parties, these centers will significantly reduce transport costs, ensure accelerated delivery of goods from the manufacturer to the final consumer while maintaining quality, which will significantly contribute to the further commodity circulation increase between Uzbekistan and Russia.

After negotiations finish, the parties emphasized settled mutual intentions to continue comprehensive review of promising growth points for investment, trade and economic cooperation and jointly ensure high-quality and timely implementation of the agreements reached.