The accord between Prime Minister Naoto Kan and Uzbek President Islam Karimov reflects resource-poor Japan's interest in boosting ties with Uzbekistan, a major producer of uranium, rare metals and other resources, Kyodo reported.

"Our country sees Uzbekistan as a country of extreme geopolitical importance and an important strategic partner from the standpoint of energy resources," Kan said at the outset of their talks.

In a joint statement released after their talks, the two leaders agreed that cooperation in uranium resource development for peaceful purposes in Uzbekistan would be "mutually beneficial."

Kan and Karimov also reaffirmed the importance of working together in the fields of energy conservation, renewable energy and alternative energy.

In line with their aim to upgrade political ties as well, the leaders confirmed their ongoing cooperation in preventing terrorism in the Central Asian region, the joint statement said.

To continue its support for Uzbekistan's infrastructure development, Tokyo voiced its intention to provide a loan of up to 18.07 billion yen for the implementation of a railway project to boost trade within the region.

Beyond bilateral ties, the two nations agreed to look into the possibility of future cooperation in boosting the capabilities of Afghanistan's civilian sector as part of their efforts to continue assisting in the country's reconstruction, according to the statement.

Karimov also met with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.

During their meeting, Karimov said he wants to enhance cooperation between Uzbekistan, which has abundant resources, and Japan, which has a high level of technology, according to the Imperial Household Agency.