Djuric, Kudratov discuss economic and business cooperation

TASHKENT, - Serbian FM Marko Djuric met with Uzbek Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov on Thursday to discuss advancement of a partnership in economic and business cooperation.

"Speaking about Uzbekistan’s significant progress in recent years, Djuric emphasised that Serbia remains committed to advancing cooperation through concrete projects and initiatives," the Serbian MFA said in a statement.

"The Serbian foreign minister noted that Belgrade and Tashkent can serve as bridges of cooperation between Central Asia and Europe, as well as links to third markets.

The minister pointed out that a series of bilateral agreements signed during last year’s visit of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to Uzbekistan will make a concrete contribution to strengthening cooperation in the fields of the economy, agriculture, tourism, trade, the ICT industry, and digital technologies.

Djuric also highlighted the economic achievements Serbia has accomplished over the past decade, both domestically and internationally, as reflected in key economic indicators.

The Serbian foreign minister also referred to his meeting with President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who briefed him on the progress the country has achieved in recent years, which today represents a visible comparative advantage for Uzbekistan in this part of the world.

Djuric stressed that there is significant potential for strengthening business ties between the two countries and invited Uzbek companies to invest in Serbia.

The officials also discussed the next steps regarding the commencement of the work of the Intergovernmental Commission for Trade and Economic Cooperation, as well as the initiation of negotiations aimed at harmonising a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.

Minister Djuric also visited the Techno Park in Tashkent, where he familiarised himself with the capacities of this technological complex and IT hub, which plays an important role in the development of Uzbekistan’s innovation ecosystem," the ministry also said.