Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In an exclusive interview with Euronews ahead of the first "Central Asia - European Union" summit in Samarkand, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev discussed the significance of the event and the prospects for cooperation between the regions.

"Our regions are linked by deep historical roots, shared interests, and an inherent desire for close partnership," the president noted. According to Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the importance of the summit lies in its unique format of cooperation, which covers a wide range of areas—from economics and investments to sustainable development, security, and digital transformation.

The president emphasized that "partnership with the EU is a relationship of mutual benefit that should bring advantages to both sides." Over the past seven years, trade between Central Asian countries and the EU has increased fourfold, reaching 54 billion euros. Uzbekistan, as a key participant in this process, is witnessing growing interest from European businesses in the Central Asian regions.

Samarkand was chosen as the location for the summit for a reason. According to the president, the city has always been a hub of trade, science, and diplomacy, bringing together cultures and peoples. The grandeur of Samarkand, Mirziyoyev noted, was built on the ability to find common ground among diverse peoples, making it an ideal platform for discussing key contemporary issues between Europe and Central Asia.

"Samarkand is regaining its special role in international life, preserving and enhancing the country’s historical political and diplomatic heritage," Shavkat Mirziyoyev added.

The president also spoke about how Central Asia, having undergone deep transformation, has become an important region for international cooperation. He emphasized that Uzbekistan places particular importance on strengthening regional security, deepening economic integration, and enhancing environmental sustainability within the framework of its chairmanship of the Central Asian Five.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev underlined that, in the face of global changes and climate challenges, it is crucial to develop sustainable partnerships with the European Union. One of the key areas of this work is the development of renewable energy sources and "green" energy, which is also beneficial for the EU. The president also shared plans for Uzbekistan to increase the share of renewable energy sources to 54% over the next five years.

According to the president, one of the most important priorities is ensuring security in Central Asia. To this end, the countries in the region are working on creating constructive dialogue, trust, and mutual initiatives. Mirziyoyev is confident that the summit in Samarkand will open new opportunities for the development of interregional cooperation and interconnectedness.

"Central Asia is becoming an important link in global transport chains," the president concluded, noting that strengthening infrastructure and logistics in the region will help build strong ties with Europe and other global powers.