Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 22 May, as part of the official business program during their stay in Ljubljana, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of the Republic of Slovenia Nataša Pirc Musar took part in a joint business forum.

The event brought together leaders and representatives from over 100 leading industrial and commercial companies from both countries.

The Slovenian business community was represented by well-known enterprises such as KRKA, Duol, Emo Frite, Panvita, Medex, Tajfun Planina, Altado, UVC Solutions, Riko, and others.

In his speech, the head of Uzbekistan emphasized that the high-level negotiations marked the beginning of a new chapter in Uzbek-Slovenian relations, primarily in the areas of trade, economy, and investment.

It was noted that, given the complex global economic environment, it is crucial to make the most of opportunities to increase mutual trade, expand cooperation, and diversify national economies.

The goal was set to increase the volume of mutual trade to 500 million euros in the coming years by expanding the range and volume of mutual supplies, including textiles, fruits and vegetables, mineral fertilizers, copper products, pharmaceuticals, technological equipment, and other goods with high added value.

Special attention was given to approving the Industrial Cooperation Development Program in sectors where the economies of the two countries complement each other.

The President of Uzbekistan highlighted key areas for further economic partnership: localization of pharmaceutical production, manufacturing of electrical equipment, food production, storage and processing of fruits and vegetables, and the construction and modernization of green energy facilities.

The development of transport connectivity was also emphasized, including leveraging the potential of the Port of Koper and establishing direct air communication between the two countries.

It was noted that the visa-free regime introduced for Slovenian citizens would contribute to the development of business, humanitarian, and tourist exchanges.

The Uzbek leader drew attention to the special industrial park being created in the country for European companies, where unique business conditions will be established, and invited Slovenian companies to become among the first residents of this special economic zone.

The head of state highly appreciated the interest of Slovenian business circles in developing mutually beneficial partnerships with Uzbekistan and noted their concrete proposals and plans.

The forum concluded with a ceremony in the presence of both presidents for the signing and exchange of bilateral trade, economic, and investment agreements.