Uzbekistan, EU sign landmark agreement

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Uzbekistan and the European Union to sign EPCA: What it means?

Today, October 24, a solemn ceremony was held in Brussels to mark the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the European Union. The event was attended by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, the presidential press service reported.

According to the statement, the document updates and significantly expands the legal framework for Uzbekistan–EU cooperation, building upon the 1996 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.

Negotiations on the new agreement began in February 2019 and were completed in July 2022. The document was initialed in Brussels on July 6, 2022.

The agreement consists of nine sections, 356 articles, and 14 annexes. It covers almost all areas of bilateral relations and establishes a comprehensive legal framework for strengthening political dialogue, expanding cooperation in trade and investment, sustainable development, science and education, innovation and high technology, as well as environmental protection and climate change.

The signing of the agreement marks a new stage in relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union and will elevate their multifaceted partnership to an unprecedented level.

It is worth noting that yesterday, October 23, the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, arrived in Brussels for an official visit, accompanied by his wife, Ziroatkhon Mirziyoyeva. At Brussels International Airport, the head of state was welcomed by the EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Terhi Hakala, and other officials.