Trade between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan has increased by 14% since the beginning of the year, with a portfolio of investment projects exceeding $4bn. These figures were highlighted during an informal meeting between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Almaty, where they discussed strengthening their strategic partnership and alliance.

The leaders reviewed ongoing efforts to enhance trade, industrial cooperation, and regional infrastructure development. They praised the growing ties between the two countries, including expanding interregional collaboration and cultural exchanges. Reports presented by Deputy Prime Ministers detailed measures to boost cooperation in key sectors such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, oil and gas, textiles, and agriculture.

President Tokayev emphasized the importance of practical initiatives, including the launch of the International Industrial Cooperation Center this year and the expansion of the joint foreign trade company. Both sides agreed on the need for a long-term program to strengthen industrial cooperation and accelerate infrastructure projects of regional significance.

The meeting also touched on regional and international matters, with discussions on preparations for upcoming Central Asian summits in Uzbekistan. President Tokayev acknowledged Uzbekistan’s robust economic performance, noting that its economy grew by more than 6% last year. He praised President Mirziyoyev’s leadership in fostering economic stability and regional cooperation.

President Mirziyoyev, in turn, expressed appreciation for Kazakhstan’s economic progress, highlighting its 5.4% growth in the first quarter of 2025. He stressed the importance of maintaining strong bilateral engagement, noting that informal meetings like this one provide valuable opportunities to advance mutual interests.

The talks concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening the Kazakh-Uzbek strategic partnership and strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors.