Serbia and Uzbekistan Move Toward Free Trade Agreement

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić held talks in Tashkent with Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov, focusing on expanding trade, economic, and industrial cooperation between the two countries.

The Serbian minister noted significant progress achieved by Uzbekistan in recent years and said Belgrade views the development of bilateral relations through the implementation of concrete projects and initiatives. He added that Uzbekistan and Serbia could serve as a link between Central Asia and Europe, as well as help both countries access third markets.

During the talks, both sides emphasized that previously signed agreements during Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s visit to Uzbekistan provide a foundation for expanding cooperation in the economy, agriculture, tourism, trade, information and communication technologies, and digital technologies.

Đurić also highlighted the positive economic trends in both Uzbekistan and Serbia, including improvements in key macroeconomic indicators over the past decade. He recalled his meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, during which Uzbekistan’s progress and competitive advantages in the region were presented.

The Serbian side expressed interest in expanding business ties and invited Uzbek companies to consider investment opportunities in Serbia. The parties also discussed steps to launch an intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation and to begin negotiations on a free trade agreement between the two countries.

During his visit, Marko Đurić also toured the Technopark in Tashkent, where he was introduced to the activities of the technology complex and IT hub, which plays an important role in developing Uzbekistan’s innovation ecosystem.