Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 8 December 2021, the second ministerial conference in the "Italy - Central Asia" format was held in Tashkent under the chairmanship of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan.

The event was attended by the heads of foreign ministries, heads and representatives of economic and financial structures, health care institutions of Central Asia, Italy and the European Union.

The delegations discussed the current state and prospects of interaction between the countries of Central Asia and Italy, noted the importance of joint response to modern challenges and threats. The ways of solving environmental problems in the region, preventing transnational threats of extremism and terrorism, as well as strengthening interethnic harmony, friendly and fraternal ties of peoples are analyzed.

Within the framework of the session sessions, mechanisms were considered for improving regional economic partnership, increasing the efficiency of interaction in the areas of trade and investment, transport and transit. Particular attention is paid to the implementation of joint projects in the energy sector, agribusiness and industrial equipment. Priority areas of joint efforts in the field of healthcare were identified, with an exchange of views on measures to counter the pandemic and overcoming its consequences.

Within the framework of the conference, a "round table" was also organized on the topic: "The current state and prospects for the development of scientific cooperation between Central Asia and Italy", which was attended by leading Central Asian and Italian experts. The participants studied conceptual models of regional governance, sustainable and inclusive development, issues of protection and promotion of cultural heritage, activation of scientific and academic contacts.