Uzbekistan and the EAEU: deepening integration and expanding cooperation

The President of Uzbekistan took part in a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council (VEEC), confirming the country's intention to strengthen cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The observer status granted to Uzbekistan in 2020 became the basis for consistent promotion of a multilateral dialogue with the union.

Uzbekistan's participation in the EAEU platform is already yielding tangible results. In 2024, the trade turnover with the countries of the association increased by 11%, and cooperation was established in 22 key areas. In October, a three-year cooperation plan was signed with the Eurasian Economic Commission, which includes about 40 specific activities in such areas as trade, industry, finance, agriculture and transport.

Uzbekistan is actively integrating into the EAEU's sectoral programs — in particular, on digitalization of trade, e-commerce, logistics, and combating climate change. Among the initiatives put forward by the President of Uzbekistan, special attention is paid to the gradual elimination of trade barriers and participation in industrial cooperation and localization programs.

The country is also completing the process of joining the Eurasian Development Bank. The entry law was signed by the President in April 2024. Participation in the bank will give Uzbekistan access to investment resources for implementing major projects in the region.

Digitalization remains a priority. Negotiations are underway to join the EAEU information system and the Digital Union project. In addition, a cooperation program in the agricultural sector and an initiative on visa-free entry to Uzbekistan for citizens of the EAEU countries using internal documents were proposed.

A systematic approach to interaction is confirmed by the creation of an interdepartmental working group on cooperation with the EAEU under the leadership of the Prime Minister. The Government and the Eurasian Economic Commission signed a Joint Action Plan for 2024-2026.

Uzbekistan participates in four EEU pilot projects. One of them — digitalization of railway cargo transportation-includes the transition to electronic document management between the EAEU countries and China. Discussions are underway on the implementation of cross-border e-commerce mechanisms, the climate agenda and the Eurasian Agroexpress project.

Integration into the EAEU provides Uzbekistan with new opportunities in trade, science, technology, and investment, as well as promotes infrastructure and industrial growth. Expanding trade turnover and developing cooperation projects play a key role in realizing the country's export potential.

The participation of the President of Uzbekistan in the next session of the SEEC demonstrates the country's consistent course towards strengthening economic ties in the region. Joint initiatives in the fields of trade, digitalization, investment and logistics form a new partnership architecture between Uzbekistan and the EAEU, focused on sustainable growth and technological development.