A NEW LEVEL IN RELATIONS BETWEEN UZBEKISTAN AND THE EUROPEAN UNION AND ITS PROSPECTS

Abstract

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Union has reached a qualitatively new level in recent years. The political, economic and social reforms implemented in the new Uzbekistan are deepening the constructive dialogue with the EU, strengthening mutual interests in investment, trade and economic relations and security issues. The main factors of strategic cooperation include the introduction of GSP+ preferences, the finalization of negotiations on the Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (CPPA), and Uzbekistan's initiatives aimed at ensuring regional stability. The parties pay great attention to expanding cooperation in the areas of green energy, digital economy, transport transit, labor migration and combating climate change. The new EU Strategy for Central Asia serves as a supporting factor for Uzbekistan's modernization processes. In the future, deepening economic integration, increased export potential, expanded investments in human capital, and an increase in joint projects on security and sustainable transport corridors are expected. Thus, Uzbekistan-EU relations are shaping up as an important strategic direction that will serve not only to strengthen bilateral ties, but also to ensure stability and prosperity in all of Central Asia.