Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The 9th annual meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) concluded in Samarkand, where leaders of investment and finance ministries from over 100 member countries participated, along with nearly 2,000 government representatives, multilateral banks, international financial institutions, experts, heads of major companies, investment funds, and media.

One of the final meetings held by the Minister of Investments, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, during the AIIB session was with Shahriah Kader Siddiqui, Secretary of Economic Relations at the Ministry of Finance of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

Uzbekistan and Bangladesh possess enormous potential for expanding their trade and economic relations, which are only just beginning to be realized. Since the beginning of the year, mutual trade between the two countries has increased by 43%. Additionally, 45 new enterprises have been established, creating new jobs, boosting economic growth, and contributing to the improved well-being of the population.

In this context, both sides outlined a series of comprehensive measures to enhance cooperation. Among the key steps is the signing of a "Roadmap" aimed at increasing agricultural exports to $100 million in the coming years. This Roadmap will facilitate favorable conditions for agricultural exports, including streamlined customs procedures, improved logistics infrastructure, and the promotion of Uzbek products in the Bangladeshi market.

Discussions also covered the development of a draft agreement on the prevention of double taxation, as well as the opening of national product exhibitions from both countries on a reciprocal basis.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties agreed on the organizational aspects of the upcoming 4th session of the Intergovernmental Commission, which will be crucial for the timely implementation of all discussed issues and a business forum involving the business communities of both nations. The Intergovernmental Commission plays a key role in coordinating and implementing joint projects, as well as addressing emerging issues.

At the upcoming Commission session, discussions will focus on advancing cooperation in agriculture, industry, energy, and education, along with exploring opportunities for new joint projects.

Laziz Kudratov emphasized that "Uzbekistan and Bangladesh have immense potential for the development of trade and economic relations, which is only beginning to unfold." Shahriah Kader Siddiqui expressed confidence, noting that "This summit marks a new stage in the development of long-term and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries."