Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The head of the mission of Uzbekistan to the European Union, Dilyor Khakimov, met with the deputy of the European Parliament Nils Ušakovs, Dunyo reports.

During the event, a discussion was held of the current state of relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union, as well as an exchange of views on the prospects for their further development. Satisfaction was expressed with the dynamic development of bilateral cooperation, which is traditionally friendly. At the same time, it was noted that the parties are not fully utilizing the existing significant potential and ample opportunities for enhancing cooperation.

The parliamentarian praised the large-scale reforms carried out in the republic, which, in his words, plays a leading role in the region. The efforts of the country's leadership to strengthen regional cooperation were especially noted, thanks to which good neighborly relations were established in Central Asia. Therefore, he intends to make active efforts to further expand the Uzbek-European relations.

“From my experience as mayor of Riga, I can say that we, we are the European Union, and Uzbekistan has not fully used all this time the potential in bilateral relations, both economically and in terms of cultural and humanitarian ties. We have very great opportunities to use,” deputy of the European Parliament Nils Ušakovs said.

According to the European Parliament, the EU very positively assesses the efforts of Uzbekistan on regional cooperation issues, including the country's efforts regarding internal reforms, the desire to join the World Trade Organization and cooperation with the European Union.

“And here we are well aware that relations between the European Union and Uzbekistan are what can contribute to economic growth and attract investment. In addition, it is also necessary to develop cultural and humanitarian ties with this, paying special attention to the exchange of experience. With this in mind, we hope to further strengthen mutually beneficial multifaceted relations with the countries of Central Asia, including Uzbekistan,” the European MP said.

In this regard, in his opinion, the early conclusion of the Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the European Union is important. He noted his willingness to support this comprehensive document.

The sides emphasized that the interests of both sides are also supported by the efforts of Uzbekistan to join the GSP + and the World Trade Organization preferences. It was hoped that these processes would be successfully completed this year.

The MEP assured that the faction of Social Democrats he represents in the European Parliament is ready to support the initiatives of the Uzbek side within the EU.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed on a number of joint activities in Brussels