Co-chaired by Tajik Prime Minister Qohir Rasoulzoda and his Uzbek counterpart Abdulla Aripov, the latest meeting of the Joint-Tajikistan-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission for Trade and Economic Cooperation took place in the Uzbek city of Khiva on April 15.
Uzbekistan’s online news portal UzDaily.uz reports that during the meeting, both Abdulla Aripov and his Tajik counterpart Qohir Rasoulzoda highlighted the significant strengthening of Uzbek-Tajik relations in recent years. They reportedly noted that the allied ties between the two countries are developing in practice, thanks to the political will of the presidents of both nations—Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Emomali Rahmon.
According to UzDaily.uz, the parties discussed ways to achieve the leaders' goal of increasing the bilateral trade to US$2 billion by 2030.
The meeting reportedly focused on the implementation of prospective projects in areas such as trade, economy, investments, transport, energy, industry, and agriculture. Participants reportedly noted that over the past five years, the bilateral trade has doubled, and the number of joint ventures has exceeded three hundred.
However, they acknowledged that there is still significant potential for growth, and opportunities are not being fully utilized.
Key topics during the meeting included deepening industrial cooperation, realizing joint projects in transport and communications, developing water and energy resources, ensuring food security, and supporting the agricultural sector. Increasing regional cooperation was also identified as a key objective.
At the conclusion of the meeting, a protocol was signed following the 12th session of the intergovernmental commission.
The prime ministers of both countries also visited Itchan Qala in Khiva. This historic city, preserved in its original beauty and recognized as an "open-air museum," made a lasting impression on the Tajik delegation.
According to Tajikistan’s Customs Service, the bilateral trade between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan last year valued at US$522.8 million, which is 3.6% higher compared to 2023 (US$504.5 million). Exports increased by 5.3%, and imports rose 7.5%.
