Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Saidov made an official visit to Astana at the invitation of the Kazakh side.

During negotiations with the Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu, a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation were discussed, including political, economic, water-energy, transit-transport and cultural-humanitarian interaction.

Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu emphasized the importance of strengthening relations between the countries. He also emphasized that Uzbekistan occupies a special place for Kazakhstan, being a reliable ally and strategic partner.

Issues related to the practical implementation of agreements reached during mutual state visits of the presidents of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in 2021 and 2022 were discussed. It was noted that a solid legal framework has been formed and the institutional foundations of a new format of cooperation have been laid.

The parties noted that a solid legal framework has been formed between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, and the institutional foundations for a new format of interaction have been laid. The agreements on allied relations and border demarcation signed in Tashkent in 2022 laid a solid foundation for the harmonious development of relations between our countries.

The Supreme Interstate Council has been created, and the Council of Interparliamentary Cooperation has been operating since last year. On the agenda is the establishment of a Council of Foreign Ministers.

During the visit, issues on the further development of cultural and humanitarian ties were considered, including plans for opening university branches, research into a common cultural and humanitarian heritage and cooperation in the field of sports.

The ministers also emphasized the need to intensify cooperation in the areas of transport and logistics, energy and water resources. It was noted that 21 new joint projects worth about US$1 billion are being developed.

Both sides confirmed their readiness to support mutual interests and strengthen cooperation within the framework of regional and international initiatives, including in the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of States of Central Asia.