Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan outline path to $10 billion trade target during Bukhara talks

According to the presidential press service, Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev visited the Ark fortress, the Poi-Kalyan complex, and the Lyabi-Hauz ensemble. The two leaders were briefed on the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the monuments, which are regarded as key examples of Islamic civilization and Silk Road-era urban development.

The visit began at the Ark fortress – the ancient citadel that served for centuries as the political and administrative center of Bukhara – before continuing to the Poi-Kalyan complex, which includes the 12th-century Kalyan Minaret, the Kalyan mosque, and the Mir-Arab madrasa. Traditional crafts and decorative arts were also presented, according to the statement.

In separate talks in Bukhara, Mirziyoyev and Tokayev discussed expanding bilateral cooperation. During the meeting, Mirziyoyev congratulated Tokayev on the successful referendum on Kazakhstan’s new constitution.

The sides reviewed the implementation of previous agreements reached during Tokayev’s visit to Uzbekistan in November last year and noted growing contacts at all levels, including intergovernmental and parliamentary ties.

Trade between the two countries reached $5 billion last year, with cooperation expanding in automotive manufacturing, infrastructure, logistics, electrical engineering, and construction materials. New areas of cooperation were mentioned in chemicals, geology, energy, and automotive components, according to the presidential press service.

The leaders also emphasized transport connectivity, including border infrastructure modernization and development of transport corridors, as well as regional energy projects such as the Kambarata Hydropower Plant and green energy exports. Environmental cooperation, including clean air initiatives in border regions, was also discussed.

Both sides expressed support for expanding cooperation in high-tech sectors, including space technology, digitalization, e-commerce, and startups, and agreed to strengthen cultural and humanitarian exchanges through cultural days and youth forums.

The presidential press service said the leaders also exchanged views on international and regional issues. Officials were instructed to prepare a roadmap for implementing the agreements and to work toward increasing bilateral trade to $10 billion in the near term.