Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During the first "Central Asia – European Union" summit in Samarkand, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered a keynote speech, emphasizing the historical significance of the dialogue between the regions and outlining strategic directions for cooperation.

"For centuries, this renowned city, located at the crossroads of the main roads of the Great Silk Road, has been an important center for dialogue between civilizations," noted the head of state, recalling the long-standing ties that were established during the time of Amir Timur and the great scholars of the region.

Mirziyoyev expressed gratitude to European partners, including European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, for their support in holding the summit.

He specifically highlighted the role of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), stating that "Uzbekistan today is the largest beneficiary of the EBRD," although relations with the bank were frozen just eight years ago.

Addressing current challenges, the President acknowledged, "We are witnessing increasing geopolitical tensions, security problems, and major regional conflicts." In this context, he called for deepening cooperation and supported the start of negotiations to resolve the situation in Ukraine: "We see no alternative to the diplomatic efforts and political solution being pursued."

A key achievement of the region, Mirziyoyev noted, is the transformation of Central Asia, which "has acquired a sustainable and irreversible character." He reminded the audience that "seven or eight years ago, the borders between individual countries were closed," but today the region demonstrates growth in trust and economic integration.

The President congratulated Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan on the resolution of their border issues, calling it a "historic event," and announced the seventh Consultative Meeting of Central Asian heads of state, which will be held in Tashkent.

Mirziyoyev linked the region's economic prospects with the implementation of large-scale projects, including the Tashkent Investment Forum in June, where a portfolio of projects with European companies totaling over 30 billion euros will be presented.

"The Agreement signed recently to open an EIB office in Tashkent will stimulate the inflow of direct investments," he said, suggesting the creation of an Investment Platform for "green" energy and transport.

The green agenda received special attention: Uzbekistan has ratified an agreement on electricity supplies to Europe and plans to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy balance to 54% by 2030. "To finance projects, we propose establishing a Working Group at the level of relevant ministries," Mirziyoyev added, announcing a Concept for the region's "green" development.

In the area of human capital, the President proposed expanding the "Erasmus Plus" program, opening a "Horizon – Europe" office in Uzbekistan, and developing joint programs in AI and digitalization.

Cultural cooperation, including exhibitions at the Louvre and the staging of the ballet "Lazgi," should be strengthened within the framework of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand in the fall of 2024.

Regarding security, Mirziyoyev supported the launch of counterterrorism dialogue and urged greater involvement of Afghanistan in regional projects: "The international community has underestimated the challenges posed by this country."

In conclusion, the President announced the establishment of the "Central Asia – EU" Partnership Committee at the level of deputy prime ministers and instructed the preparation of a "roadmap" to implement the agreements.

"Central Asia is ready for full-scale cooperation as a reliable partner," he concluded, congratulating the participants on the establishment of the strategic partnership.

The summit in Samarkand became a symbolic bridge between the past and the future, confirming the two regions' commitment to jointly addressing global challenges through investments, dialogue, and mutual trust.