The first Central Asia-European Union summit takes place in Astana

It is attended by the presidents of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and European Union, as well as the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan.

In his speech, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that Uzbekistan sees this format as an important dialogue space necessary to promote practical cooperation, strengthen trust, partnership and interdependence.

Turning to trade and economic direction of our region and the European Union, the head of state noted that following the accession of our countries to preferential trade system "GSP+", exports of Uzbek products with high added value has nearly doubled since the beginning of this year.

However, it is noted that the overall figures do not correspond to the huge opportunities available to compete adequately with the range of finished, non-resource goods in European markets:

-Maintaining compliance of industrial products with high European standards and technical regulations;

-Creation of optimal efficient transport and logistics corridors to reach EU markets, especially the development of the Trans-Caspian multi-modal route;

-It was noted that joint marketing research as well as targeted events and activities are needed to make Central Asian products recognisable and in demand among European consumers.

In order to address these issues systematically, our President proposed the establishment of a European Union-Central Asia economic cooperation committee at the level of deputy prime ministers.

Within the framework of this structure's activity, the expediency of elaborating a long-term strategic programme for deepening trade and economic cooperation and developing mutual transport and communication links, covering the goals and objectives of the Global Gateway initiative, was noted.

The ready of Uzbekistan to create the most favourable conditions for the opening of the regional office of the European Investment Bank was expressed.