Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 7 February, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held talks with a Japanese delegation led by Akihisa Nagashima, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister of Japan.

The meeting focused on strengthening Uzbek-Japanese relations, deepening friendship and strategic partnership, and expanding multifaceted cooperation and practical engagement between the two countries.

Akihisa Nagashima conveyed warm greetings and a personal message from Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. He reaffirmed Japan’s view of Uzbekistan as a reliable and long-term strategic partner in promoting free and open international cooperation based on the rule of law.

The discussions highlighted the dynamic development of bilateral ties across various sectors, including economic and innovation cooperation, energy, industry, infrastructure, and social programs. The parties also emphasized the importance of expanding educational and cultural exchanges, tourism programs, and labor migration initiatives, as well as enhancing productive regional cooperation.

In 2024, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Japan increased by 35%. The total portfolio of joint projects with leading Japanese companies and financial institutions exceeded US$12 billion. Around 100 joint enterprises and organizations, including the Uzbek-Japanese Center, are actively operating in Uzbekistan.

President Mirziyoyev stressed the importance of maintaining active high-level contacts and mutual visits. He also expressed satisfaction with the dynamic cooperation agenda in trade, investment, and financial-technical sectors, including projects under the Japanese government’s Development Assistance Program.

Additionally, the Uzbek leader wished Japan success in organizing Expo 2025, which will take place in Osaka starting in April this year.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on regional cooperation ahead of the first Central Asia–Japan Summit.