ROME: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have announced the establishment of a strategic partnership between their two countries during President Mirziyoyev’s state visit to Italy.
The leaders exchanged 10 intergovernmental and interagency documents aimed at expanding multilateral cooperation in various sectors.
The signed agreements included an accord on mutual promotion and protection of investments, as well as agreements on cooperation in legal matters, industrial property, and agriculture. Additionally, memorandums of cooperation were inked between Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage agency and the Italian trade agency, focusing on restoration efforts.
Cooperation agreements were also signed between the Culture and Art Development Fund of Uzbekistan and the Italian Ministry of Culture in the field of culture.
Moreover, the two countries adopted a cooperation program for 2023-2024 between their foreign affairs ministries, as well as a program of cultural exchanges until 2026. These initiatives serve to strengthen bilateral ties and pave the way for enhanced collaboration between Uzbekistan and Italy across various sectors.
Uzbekistan’s President’s Talks with Italian Leadership
During the visit, President Mirziyoyev held talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome. Economic cooperation took center stage, with both leaders praising the successful business forum held earlier, which resulted in agreements and contracts worth over €9 billion.
The development of humanitarian ties was also a key topic of discussion. The leaders reached an agreement to hold an exhibition showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of Uzbekistan in Italy. They also discussed prospects for cooperation in education, archaeology, and addressing environmental challenges.
Regional and international issues were also on the agenda, particularly the situation in Afghanistan. The leaders stressed the need for continued humanitarian aid to the Afghan people and regular consultations among special envoys.
President Mirziyoyev expressed his hope that the visit would mark the beginning of a new phase in the multifaceted cooperation between Uzbekistan and Italy. Both leaders emphasized the importance of boosting trade and economic cooperation and encouraging direct contacts between the regions of both countries.
The establishment of a strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Italy, along with the signing of multiple cooperation agreements, demonstrates a deepening of bilateral relations and sets the stage for further collaboration in various areas of mutual interest.
