Presidents of Uzbekistan and Slovenia participate in a joint business forum

On May 22, as part of the business program of his visit to Ljubljana, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, took part in a joint business forum.

The event was attended by executives and representatives of more than 100 leading industrial and commercial enterprises from both countries.

KRKA, Duol, Emo Frite, Panvita, Medex, Tajfun Planina, Altado, UVC Solutions, Riko, and others represented Slovenian businesses.

In his address, the President of Uzbekistan noted that the productive high-level talks held earlier today had opened a new chapter in relations between Uzbekistan and Slovenia, particularly in trade, economy, and investment.

It was emphasized that in the current challenging period for the global economy, it is essential to seize opportunities to increase mutual trade, expand cooperation, and diversify national economies.

A target was set to raise mutual trade volumes to €500 million in the coming years by broadening the range and volume of traded goods, including textile and fruit and vegetable products, mineral fertilizers, copper products, pharmaceuticals, technological equipment, and other high-value-added goods.

Adopting a Program for the Development of Industrial Cooperation was also highlighted, particularly in sectors where the two countries’ economies can complement each other.

The President of Uzbekistan outlined key areas for further economic partnership. These include the localization of pharmaceutical production, manufacturing of electrical equipment and food products, storing and processing fruit and vegetable produce, and constructing and modernizing green energy facilities.
Special attention was given to enhancing transport connectivity, particularly through using the Slovenian Port of Koper and establishing direct air links between the two countries.

It was noted that the visa-free regime introduced by Uzbekistan for Slovenian citizens will contribute to developing business, humanitarian, and tourism exchanges.

The President of Uzbekistan drew the participants’ attention to establishing a special industrial park in the country for European companies, which will offer unique conditions for doing business. He invited Slovenian companies to become among the first residents of this special zone.

The Head of state highly praised the interest shown by Slovenian business circles in developing mutually beneficial partnerships with Uzbekistan, noting that they presented specific proposals and plans.

The event concluded with a ceremony, held in the presence of the Presidents of both countries, for the exchange of bilateral trade, economic, and investment agreements.