On April 16 this year, Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan S. Umurzakov held a video conference with Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar.

The conversation touched upon the progress and prospects for further strengthening of bilateral cooperation in the trade, economic, investment, transport and logistics areas, as well as measures taken by both governments aimed at mitigation of economic consequences of the global pandemic crisis.

The parties noted the effective cooperation between the ministries and departments of two countries on deepening the interaction in trade, industrial cooperation and transport and logistics areas. Currently, there has been significant progress on removal of commercial barriers, expansion of the range and volume of bilateral trade and development of cross-country production chains.

As used here, the parties agreed that it is necessary to intensify regular work to simplify and harmonize customs regulations and standards, as well as integrate information systems of customs services.

They emphasized commitment of both governments to do their best to maintain sustainable mutual trade with a view to prompt measures to ensure unimpeded freight traffic through the territories of both countries.

Moreover, the parties considered specific tools to combine tariff and non-tariff regulation, which will increase sales volume between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in the current economic situation up to USD 5 billion per year.

Negotiations resulted in agreement on active communication between the heads of relevant ministries and departments of two countries via video conferencing to review relevant issues.