Uzbekistan, Belarus sign declaration on strategic partnership

Uzbekistan and Belarus have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, signing a landmark declaration during Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's official visit to Minsk on July 8-9. The agreement, hailed by both leaders as a historic step, formally enshrines a deep level of bilateral relations built on equality, mutual respect, and a consideration for each other's interests.

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The sides called the move a historic step, underlining that the document officially enshrines the high level of bilateral relations, based on the principles of equality, mutual respect, trust, and consideration for each other’s interests.

President Mirziyoyev stressed that the declaration signals a strong, long-term commitment to multifaceted cooperation. Accompanying him was a significant delegation of 230 companies and entrepreneurs, highlighting Uzbekistan's focus on expanding economic ties. The visit also featured the 3rd Forum of Regions, bringing together business leaders and officials from major Uzbek regions like Tashkent, Fergana, and Andijan.

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I have brought a delegation of this size with me for the first time, 230 companies and entrepreneurs from Uzbekistan are in Minsk today. It is a high-level forum. It involves our three largest regions, each with a population of 4 million: Tashkent, Fergana, and Andijan regions… There are many promising projects.

Trade between the two nations has seen substantial growth, tripling over the past five years to nearly $1 billion. A key outcome of the visit is a roadmap designed to boost bilateral trade to $2 billion by 2030. Uzbekistan is already a top 10 foreign partner for Belarus and ranks third among CIS countries. The countries also agreed to explore cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy, joint tourism initiatives, and cultural exchanges, signaling a broad agenda for future collaboration.

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We advocate for a multipolar world. We do not wish to interfere with anyone. We look out for our people, and Uzbekistan looks out for its own. Yet, at the same time, we are working very actively to align our interests.