Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  The first Uzbekistan-Croatia Business Forum took place in Tashkent, marking a significant milestone in expanding trade, economic, and investment cooperation between the two countries.

The forum was co-chaired by Laziz Kudratov, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investments, Industry, and Trade, and Gordan Radman, Croatia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs.

The event brought together officials from relevant ministries and agencies, Uzbek business representatives, and over 50 Croatian companies, including “Apiherbal Ltd,” “Legio Nordica,” “Osam Nula Tri,” “Đuro Đaković Montaža-Izolak,” “Matison,” “Infobip,” “Span d.d.,” “Podravka,” among others.

In his opening remarks, Laziz Kudratov emphasized the importance of enhancing business ties between the two nations, strengthening trade relations, and leveraging the advantages of the GSP+ system, which provides preferential access to European markets. He highlighted the need to fully utilize the existing opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation in the context of global digital transformation.

During the forum, the Croatian delegation was introduced to Uzbekistan’s favorable business conditions, including safeguards for entrepreneurs’ rights and interests, as well as the country’s investment and industrial potential. Special attention was given to opportunities in digital technologies, education, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and agriculture.

The program also featured B2B and B2G meetings, enabling participants to establish new business connections and discuss the implementation of joint projects and trade agreements.

Experts noted that the forum served as a vital platform for exchanging ideas and exploring new areas of collaboration. Agreements reached during the event will lay the foundation for deeper economic ties between Uzbekistan and Croatia.