Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 20 September 2024, a ceremonial event was held in Uzbekistan for the presentation of credentials by newly appointed foreign ambassadors.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received credentials from the ambassadors of India, Smita Pant; South Korea, Won Do-yeon; Mongolia, Daadanhuu Batbaatar; Germany, Manfred Huterer; Israel, Gideon Lustig; and the head of the European Union delegation, Toivo Klaar.

The President warmly congratulated the diplomats on the beginning of their honorable and responsible missions in Uzbekistan, emphasizing the increasing importance of their work amid global instability and rapid changes in the world situation. He noted that their efforts to protect the interests of their countries and strengthen friendly relations among nations are vital.

Mirziyoyev highlighted that Uzbekistan’s open, constructive, and pragmatic foreign policy is enhancing the country’s authority on the international stage. This is evidenced by the adoption of over ten special resolutions by the UN General Assembly initiated by Uzbekistan, including four documents approved this year.

Despite global challenges, Uzbekistan’s economy is demonstrating stable growth, projected by the World Bank to reach 5.3% this year. The country’s GDP exceeded US$100 billion for the first time last year.

The summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris showcased remarkable achievements by Uzbekistan’s young athletes, reflecting the success of extensive reforms.

The President reiterated that Uzbekistan will continue to build a democratic society under the "Uzbekistan – 2030" strategy, modernizing the economy and infrastructure while creating opportunities for businesses and investors. Elections for the Oliy Majlis and local representative bodies will take place next month, based on a mixed electoral system under the updated Constitution.

Gratitude was also expressed to the governments of the countries whose representatives are participating in diplomatic missions for their support of Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization.

Addressing the Indian Ambassador, Smita Pant, the President noted that due to strong political will from both nations, their strategic partnership has reached a new level. Since the beginning of the year, trade turnover has increased by 30%, with a growing number of joint ventures and flights, as well as tourism exchanges. Four branches of Indian universities are successfully operating in Uzbekistan. He emphasized the need to raise mutual trade to US$1 billion, focusing on expanding projects in digital economy, healthcare, tourism, and other priority areas.

Regarding South Korea, the President stated that it is a reliable strategic partner, highlighting agreements reached during President Yoon Suk Yeol’s visit to Uzbekistan for multifaceted cooperation, including high-tech partnerships in industry. The volume of mutual trade reached US$2.5 billion, with over 700 joint ventures operating in Uzbekistan.

To the Mongolian Ambassador, he noted that the recent visit by President Khurelsukh has opened a new chapter in Uzbek-Mongolian relations, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling agreements, including those on preferential trade and agricultural projects.

The President recognized Germany as an important long-term partner in Europe, citing significant increases in trade volume and joint ventures, as well as a tenfold increase in investment.

On Israel, he remarked on its importance as an economic partner, noting that trade volume doubled last year. He expressed interest in enhancing cooperation in innovation, agriculture, and water management.

He acknowledged the European Union as a reliable partner, celebrating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. High-level reciprocal visits have increased, with trade turnover with EU countries growing by 30% last year.

In conclusion, the President wished the newly appointed ambassadors success in their work and encouraged them to explore the outcomes of reforms in remote areas of the country. The foreign diplomats, in turn, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and the conditions created for effective collaboration aimed at strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation.